Universal Tactile Feedback System for Computer Video Games and Simulations

ABSTRACT

A universal tactile feedback system for computer and video game systems is disclosed which provides real time tactile feedback to enhance a user&#39;s experience while interacting with a computer/video game or simulation. The tactile feedback system operates both in host-independent and host-dependent modes, thereby allowing the system to function even when no accommodation is provided by the game or simulation system that is being used. The host-independent mode is responsive to the audio signal that is typically generated by a computer or video game system while it is executing a game or simulation. The host-dependent mode is responsive to control commands specifically generated by a computer or video game system while it is executing a game or simulation. The tactile feedback system then creates tactile sensations primarily via controller-based tactile sensation generators, such that the user feels physical sensations corresponding to events occurring within the game or simulation in real time.

CROSS REFERENCES

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/201,584, filed Jul. 23, 2002, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 08/935,762, filed Sep. 23, 1997, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,422,941, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 08/309,763, filed Sep. 21, 1994, now U.S. Pat. No.5,684,722 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/409,327, filed Mar.23, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,669,818. This application is also acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/929,426, filed Oct.30, 2007, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/201,584, filed Jul. 23, 2002, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 08/935,762, filed Sep. 23, 1997, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,422,941, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 08/309,763, filed Sep. 21, 1994, now U.S. Pat. No.5,684,722 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/409,327, filed Mar.23, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,669,818. The disclosures of all of theforegoing applications and patents set forth in this paragraph arehereby incorporated by reference in their entirety, as if fully setforth herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a tactile feedback system for computer andvideo game systems and, more particularly, to a universal tactilefeedback system for computer and video game systems which provides realtime tactile feedback to enhance a user's experience while interactingwith a computer/video game or simulation.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

With the advent of low cost microprocessors and the explosive growth ofthe PC industry, electronic gaming has proliferated at a blinding rate.Games and simulations are now executed, in homes and arcades, on a vastarray of available hardware platforms, where each hardware platformyields its own unique combination of complexity, and fidelity, and cost.Depending on a given hardware implementation, game players may have manydifferent types of control input devices at their disposal that are usedto interact with a game or simulation. For example, driving games andsimulations may use any combination of control input devices such assteering wheels, gear shifters, and gas/brake/clutch pedal units. Flightgames and simulations may use any combination of control input devicessuch as throttles, weapons controllers, joysticks, rudder pedals, andflight yolks. First person perspective action games may use anycombination of joystick, mouse, or 3D control. In most cases, a personplaying a game or simulation is sitting in a seat of some kind whileinteracting with the hardware control input devices.

In order for tactile sensation to be effectively implemented by a modernelectronic gaming system, where there are so many inconsistenciesbetween various hardware systems and their software applications, anentirely new approach is necessary. In order to be most effective, agaming or simulation system must be able to provide the illusion thatall of the available disparate control input devices that control agiven simulation are each part of a unified whole, and that they are notindependent, physically disconnected devices. This is necessary tosuspend the disbelief of the person who is interacting with the game orsimulation system.

Due to the current and future countless implementations of computerbased video game and simulation systems, and due to the continuallyexpanding library of game and simulation applications that can beexecuted on such systems, a need exists in the art for a truly universaltactile feedback system that can function without regard to the specificapparatus, implementation, or application of any given system.Furthermore, a need exists in the art for a universal system that canaccommodate currently existing and future control input devices, viasimple and inexpensive tactile feedback actuators, that can be readilyconnected to or embedded within said devices, such that these disparatedevices become part of a unified whole. Additionally, a need exists inthe art for a universal system that will function both with and withoutsupport by the host gaming apparatus, achieving said functionality byimplementing both a reprogrammable audio analysis function, and/or adirect digital control function. Moreover, a need exists in the art fora tactile feedback seating unit, that is not based on a low frequencyspeaker system, such that vehicle based games and simulations can bemore realistically rendered, both with and without support by the hostgaming apparatus. Furthermore, a need exists in the art for a vest-basedtactile sensation generator, such that both open-body games and vehiclebased games can be more realistically rendered, both with and withoutsupport by the host gaming apparatus. Finally, a need exists in the artfor a universal tactile feedback system, such that the complete systemis versatile, inexpensive, reliable, lightweight, quiet, reconfigurable,reprogrammable, and expandable.

Accordingly, it is a primary objective of the present invention tointroduce a tactile feedback seating unit that can produce tactilefeedback within a seat, that is not based upon a low frequency speakersystem, that can function via host-independent digital audio analysisand/or host-dependent direct digital control, the digital signal notnecessarily being specific to the actuators in the seat, but rather ageneral control signal for a distributed system, in order to representtactile sensations occurring in real time within a computer generatedgame or simulation, such that the person sitting in the seat feels thisrepresentation, and the tactile feedback provided by such a systemfurther enhances the believability of the simulation. It is anadditional primary objective of the present invention to implement thetactile feedback seating unit as a self contained unit, where aplurality of tactile feedback actuators are embedded inside a semi-rigidsealed foam cushion, such that the unit is portable, lightweight andquiet, and can fit in almost any chair and function with almost anyapplication.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a tactile feedback system for computerbased video games and simulations. More specifically, the tactilefeedback system comprises a tactile feedback controller and a pluralityof tactile sensation generators.

The tactile feedback controller serves to receive and interpret signalsrepresentative of the actions of a particular video game or simulationfrom a computer or gaming console. The tactile feedback controllerproduces one or more control signals that are necessary to control oneor more tactile sensation generators to effect tactile sensations thatcorrelate to the actions of the video game. The tactile feedbackcontroller can be operated in two different modes, i.e., ahost-independent or host-dependent mode.

The host-independent mode allows the tactile feedback controller tointerpret the audio signals from a video game to generate the controlsignals for the tactile sensation generators. Under this mode ofoperation, the tactile feedback controller is able to use the audiosignals to properly decipher the actions of the video game, independentof any control signals from the video game. This mode allows the presenttactile feedback system to operate without the direct support of thevideo game developer, and without regard to the specific hardware thatis used to run any given computer game or simulation. Therefore, thismode is called the “host-independent” mode of operation.

The host-dependent mode allows the tactile feedback controller toreceive and process digital control signals from a video game togenerate control signals for the tactile sensation generators. Thisrequires that the control signals from the video game be designedspecifically for the tactile feedback system. The tactile feedbackcontroller processes the control signals from the video game and causesthe proper tactile sensations to be generated, thereby physicallyimitating the current actions of the video game. This mode requiresspecific accommodation by the host gaming hardware and software tofunction. Therefore, this mode is called the “host-dependent” mode ofoperation.

Regardless as to its mode of operation, the tactile feedback controllerhas the capability to process signal data and to simultaneously activateone or more tactile sensation generators to simulate the desired action.Namely, the tactile feedback controller appraises the desired actioncalled for by the control signals from the video game and then assessesthe best combination of the available tactile sensation generators toeffect the tactile sensations associated with the desired action.

Furthermore, the present tactile feedback system allows forcustomization by the user. A set of parameters can be adjusted to allowthe user to tailor how the tactile feedback controller will process thecontrol signals from the video game, e.g., amplification, time delays,duration of sensations, and etc. In fact, the present tactile feedbacksystem allows a user to calibrate each of these parameters to satisfyindividual preferences or to account for differences in current orfuture computer systems. The desired setting for these parameters can besaved for each user and/or for each video game.

Finally, a set of novel tactile sensation generators and/or tactilesensation generator kits for modifying existing computer peripherals aredisclosed. The tactile sensation generators include a tactile sensationseating unit, a tactile sensation chest harness, and various tactilesensation actuators that can be attached to or embedded within variouscontrol input devices and/or non-interactive surfaces in contact withthe user. These tactile sensation generators are coupled to the tactilefeedback controller and, in combination therewith, form the presenttactile feedback system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The teachings of the present invention can be readily understood byconsidering the following detailed description in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of the present tactile feedback system;

FIG. 2 depicts an illustrative configuration of the present tactilefeedback system;

FIG. 3 depicts a block diagram of the present tactile feedbackcontroller;

FIG. 4 depicts a block diagram of the audio signal preprocessingsection;

FIG. 5 depicts a circuit diagram of the front end circuit;

FIG. 6 depicts a circuit diagram of the variable gain preamplifier;

FIG. 7 depicts a circuit diagram of the treble audio filter and peakhold buffer;

FIG. 8 depicts a circuit diagram of the midrange audio filter and peakhold buffer;

FIG. 9 depicts a circuit diagram of the bass audio filter and peak holdbuffer;

FIG. 10 depicts a flow chart of a method for generating control signalsfor tactile sensation generators under a host independent and hostdependent modes of operation;

FIG. 11 is a flow chart for the method of post-processing the audiosignals;

FIG. 12 is flow chart of a method for processing raw audio signals witha plurality of audio analysis parameters;

FIG. 13 is a flow chart of a method of post-processing the directcontrol signal;

FIG. 14 is a flow chart of a method for generating control signals fortactile sensation generators;

FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating the relationship between thedigital control signal table, device specific power output parameterstable and the PWM control signal table;

FIG. 16 is a flow chart of the batch data transmission method;

FIG. 17 is a flow chart of a “no user intervention” method to triggerthe batch data transmission method;

FIG. 18 is a flow chart of a “user intervention” method to trigger thebatch data transmission method;

FIG. 19 is a flow chart of a host-independent audio analysis calibrationmethod;

FIG. 20 is a flow chart that illustrates a method of activating LEDs viaa multiplexing method;

FIG. 21 is a flow chart that illustrates a method of reading hardwareswitches via a multiplexing method;

FIG. 22 is a circuit diagram of the LED display of FIG. 23;

FIG. 23 is an illustration of a LED display with the circuit of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is an illustration of the user input switches on the tactilefeedback controller;

FIG. 25 is a functional block diagram of both the multiple independentPWM control signal generation component and the PWM outputs of thepresent system;

FIG. 26A depicts the first of four common control input device hardwaresuites;

FIG. 26B depicts a second of four control input device hardware suites;

FIG. 26C depicts a third of four control input device hardware suites;

FIG. 26D depicts a fourth of four common control input device hardwaresuites;

FIG. 27A illustrates a tactile feedback seating unit with six actuators;

FIG. 27B illustrates the tactile sensation actuators that are embeddedwithin the tactile feedback seating unit;

FIG. 27C illustrates a tactile feedback seating unit with eightactuators;

FIG. 28A is a diagram of a chest tactile sensation generator;

FIG. 28B is a diagram of a chest tactile sensation generator;

FIG. 28C is a diagram of a chest tactile sensation generator;

FIG. 29A illustrates a DC motor which has an offset weight on its shaft,in a side view;

FIG. 29B illustrates a DC motor which has an offset weight on its shaft,in a front view;

FIG. 29C illustrates a DC motor in a housing, in a side view;

FIG. 29D illustrates a DC motor in a housing, in a front view;

FIG. 29E illustrates a solenoid in a housing, in a side view;

FIG. 30A illustrates the housing having an attachment means of atwo-sided adhesive strip;

FIG. 30B illustrates the housing having an attachment means of twocorresponding halves of hook and loop fasteners;

FIG. 30C illustrates a hook and loop fastening means affected upon astrap;

FIG. 31A is a rear side view of a center-mounted throttle;

FIG. 31B is a top down view of a center-mounted throttle;

FIG. 31C depicts a throttle tactile sensation generator;

FIG. 31D is a top down view of the apparatus of FIG. 31C;

FIG. 31E is a rear side view of a side-mounted throttle;

FIG. 31F is a top down view of a side-mounted throttle;

FIG. 31G depicts a throttle tactile sensation generator;

FIG. 31H is a top down view of the apparatus of FIG. 31G;

FIG. 32A is a rear side view of a joystick;

FIG. 32B is a top down view of a joystick;

FIG. 32C is a rear side view of a joystick, with a tactile sensationactuator attached to its shaft;

FIG. 32D is a top down view of the apparatus of FIG. 32C;

FIG. 32E is a rear side view of a joystick, with a tactile sensationactuator attached to its shaft;

FIG. 32F is a top down view of FIG. 32E;

FIG. 33A is a top down view of a rudder pedals control input device;

FIG. 33B is a right side view of a rudder pedals control input device;

FIG. 33C illustrates tactile sensation enhanced replacement pedalsurfaces;

FIG. 33D is a right side view of the apparatus of FIG. 33C;

FIG. 33E illustrates tactile sensation generators affixed to theunderside of each rudder pedal;

FIG. 33F is a right side view of the apparatus of FIG. 33E;

FIG. 34A is a front view of a flight control yolk's handle;

FIG. 34B is the apparatus of FIG. 34A, wherein left and right handcontrol yolk tactile sensation generators are applied;

FIG. 34C is the apparatus of FIG. 34A, with left and right hand tactilesensation generators applied in upper outside positions on the controlyolk's two handles;

FIG. 34D is the apparatus of FIG. 34A, with a larger, single tactilesensation generator applied;

FIG. 35A is a front view of a steering wheel;

FIG. 35B is a side view of a steering wheel;

FIG. 35C is a front view of a steering wheel with tactile sensationgenerator attached to one spoke on the steering wheel;

FIG. 35D is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 35C;

FIG. 36A is a top down view of a pedal unit control input device;

FIG. 36B is a side view of a pedal unit control input device;

FIG. 36C is a top down view of a pedal unit control input device withtactile sensation actuators attached;

FIG. 36D is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 36C;

FIG. 37A is a side view of a shift knob upon a shaft;

FIG. 37B is a shift knob with an embedded tactile sensation generator;

FIG. 37C is the shift knob of FIG. 37B, additionally with an embeddedsolenoid;

FIG. 37D illustrates a dense foam insert in the interior of the shiftknob;

FIG. 38A depicts a front view of an illustrative hand-held control inputdevice;

FIG. 38B is the back of the controller as depicted in FIG. 38A;

FIG. 38C illustrates a vibratory tactile sensation generator attached tothe back of the hand-held control input device;

FIG. 38D illustrates tactile sensation generators for the left hand andright hand contained within a single housing, where two motors and onesolenoid are embedded within or attached to the apparatus of

FIG. 39 depicts a front and side view of a vest-based tactile sensationgenerator;

To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have beenused, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common tothe figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 depicts a high level block diagram of a tactile feedback system100 interfacing with a computer system or video game console 102(hereinafter host computer). The host computer 102 is connected to thetactile feedback system 100 by electrical connections 103 and 104 whichmay carry analog or digital signals respectively. In fact, signals fromthe host computer can be passed to the tactile feedback system usingother types of communication channels 106, e.g., channels that employinfrared radiation, radio wave or sound wave. If these communicationchannels are used, then the corresponding receivers must be implementedon the tactile feedback system, e.g., RF receiver, IR receiver or amicrophone.

Thus, it should be understood that the configuration of having the hostcomputer 102 coupled to the tactile feedback system 100 is onlyillustrative and the present invention is not so limited. Namely, thehost computer 102 can be implemented as any device that is capable ofsending the necessary control signals (e.g., a speaker broadcasting thesounds from a video game), such that the tactile feedback system iscapable of operating one or more tactile sensation generators.

The tactile feedback system 100 comprises a tactile feedback controller110 and one or more tactile sensation generators 120. In the preferredembodiment, the tactile feedback controller 110 is connected by powerdistribution cables 116 to multiple independent tactile sensationgenerators 120. However, the present invention can be modified such thatonly control signals are forwarded to the tactile sensation generators,where each generator is able to be activated under its own power source.

The tactile feedback controller 110 comprises a host independent portion112 and a host dependent portion 114. Namely, the host-independentportion allows the tactile feedback controller 110 to interpret theaudio signals from a video game to generate the control signals for thetactile sensation generators. Under this mode of operation, the tactilefeedback controller is able to use the audio signals to properlydecipher the actions of the video game, independent of any controlsignals from the video game.

In contrast, the host-dependent portion allows the tactile feedbackcontroller 110 to receive and process the control signals from a hostcomputer 102 to generate the control signals for the tactile sensationgenerators. Namely, the control signals from the host computer 102 isdesigned specifically for the tactile feedback system.

In the preferred embodiment, electrical connection 103 represents theaudio cable (stereo or mono) that carries the analog audio signalproduced by the host computer 102. More specifically, the host computer102 has one of its audio output ports, e.g., an amplified or line-level⅛ inch stereo output connector, connected via line 103 to an input port118 of the tactile feedback controller 110.

Similarly, electrical connection 104 represents a cable that carries thedigital signal produced by the host computer 102 to an input port 119 ofthe tactile feedback controller 110. In this preferred embodiment, thedigital cable 104 is a parallel cable, e.g., a DB25 to DB25 “straightthrough” male to male cable. However, it should be understood that thepresent invention can be implemented with any type of digital cables,port configurations and various other transmission protocols (such asRS-232 DB9 serial or USB universal serial bus, PCMCIA card connector andcable, coaxial cable, and the like).

Furthermore, a pass through port 117 is coupled to port 119 to allow thesignals carried on the electrical connection 104 to pass through port119. This pass through port allows multiple tactile feedback controllers110 to be daisy chained to support additional tactile sensationgenerators. This pass through port also serves to pass non-tactilesensation related signals to other peripherals, e.g., a printer.

In the preferred embodiment, twelve (12) pins on the electricalconnection 104 are employed to communicate with the tactile feedbackcontroller 110. Namely, the present invention employs a 12-bit bus forcommunication with a communication format having a 4-bit control wordand an 8-bit data word. Throughout this disclosure, the physicallocations for the 4-bit control word and 8-bit data word on line 104 arereferred to as PORT A and PORT B, respectively.

It should be understood that although the present invention employs a12-bit bus for communication, buses of any size can be implemented.Generally, the selection of a communication protocol and bus size isgoverned by the requirements of a particular application. For example, amore powerful microcontroller may have sufficient I/O pins to allow acommunication format greater than 12 bits.

Furthermore, bidirectional communication can also be implemented betweenthe host computer 102 and the tactile feedback controller 110. Suchbidirectional communication would allow the tactile feedback controller110 the ability to transmit internal status, verification and operatingdata to the host computer system 102.

The present 12-bit communication bus is used for two separate anddistinct types of communication: sending batch data transmissions andsending host-dependent direct digital control signals. Batch datatransmissions allow the host computer 102 to send configuration data inreal time to the tactile feedback controller 110. These batch datatransmissions may include such information as default settings, userpreferences, device configurations, application specific audio analysisparameters, system analysis display modes, which are described in detailbelow.

The other type of communication that occurs over the 12-bit bus(comprised of 4-bit PORT A and 8-bit PORT B) is the transmission ofcontrol signals necessary to support the host-dependent mode ofoperation. If the software application executing on the host computer102 supports this mode of operation, the user can place the tactilefeedback controller 110 in the host-dependent mode by flipping a modeselect switch. In this mode of operation, control signals necessary tooperate the various tactile sensation generators are derived from thecontrol signals received from the host computer 102.

Alternatively, the tactile feedback controller 110 can be implementedsuch that it is able to automatically select its optimal mode ofoperation, e.g., the presence or absence of a start code from the hostcomputer or the detection of a valid signal by the host independentsection 112. In the preferred embodiment, a mode select toggle switch isimplemented to select one of two possible positions, e.g.,host-independent mode or host-dependent mode. This switch can beactivated at any time by a user to select the desired mode, even whilethe system is in use.

FIG. 2 depicts an illustrative configuration of the present tactilefeedback system 100. Namely, a host computer 102 is coupled to thetactile feedback controller 110 which, in turn, is coupled to one ormore tactile sensation generators 120. Within the scope of the presentinvention, the tactile sensation generators may include a tactilesensation seating unit 510, a tactile sensation chest harness 520, atactile sensation enhanced throttle 530, a tactile sensation enhancedjoystick 540, a tactile sensation enhanced flight yolk with a lefthandle 535 and a right handle 545, tactile sensation enhanced rudderpedals with a left pedal 550 and a right pedal 560, a tactile sensationenhanced steering wheel 570, a tactile sensation enhanced shift knob575, tactile sensation enhanced driving pedals 585 extending from apedal base unit 580, a vest-based tactile sensation generator 595, and atactile sensation enhanced hand-held game controller 598. Each of thesetactile sensation generators is discussed later in this disclosure.

FIG. 3 depicts a block diagram of the present tactile feedbackcontroller 110. More specifically, the tactile feedback controllercomprises a plurality of ports 117-119, an audio signal preprocessingsection 310, a microcontroller 320, transistor switch circuits 350, aplurality of switches 360, and a display 370. The microcontroller 320 isillustrated as having one or more analog-to-digital converters 330,memories (random access memory 342 and read only memory 344) and aprocessor 340.

Referring to FIG. 3, host independent section 112 and host dependentsection 114 are illustrated in dashed boxes. Since these sections sharecommon resources, the dashed boxes serve to illustrate the componentsthat are implemented within each section. More specifically, in thehost-independent mode of operation, the audio signal is received intothe tactile feedback controller via port 118. The audio signal isinitially processed by an audio signal pre-processing section 310. Thissection serves to filter and separate the audio signal into one or morefiltered audio signals that are more amenable to manipulation by themicrocontroller 320.

The analog audio signals leaving pre-processing section 310 are thensampled by analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) 330 to produce digitalsignals that are processed and analyzed by the processor 340 to generatethe control signals for the tactile sensation generators. The processingof the audio signals are generally performed under the control of themicrocontroller 320 using the appropriate software application residingin the ROM 344.

In the host-dependent mode of operation, the digital signals arereceived into the tactile feedback controller 110 via port 119.Specifically, port 119 comprises a 4-bit input port and an 8-bit inputport which are designed to receive control and data signals from thehost computer 102. For simplicity, the 4-bit port is referred to as PORTA, and the 8-bit port is referred to as PORT B. If a valid 12-bit signalis received by PORT A and PORT B, then the 12-bit signal is analyzed bythe processor 340 to generate the control signals for the tactilesensation generators.

However, if the combined 12-bit signal indicates a batch datatransmission, then the microcontroller 320 is alerted that one or moreconfiguration functions are being requested by a user. Variousconfiguration functions are described later in this disclosure.

Next, control signals for the tactile sensation generator (derived fromeither the host-independent mode or the host-dependent mode), areconverted into multiple independent pulse width modulation (PWM) controlsignals that are sent via TTL circuit lines to the transistor switchcircuits 350, to drive one or more tactile sensation generators 120 thatare connected to the tactile feedback controller 110.

Additionally, a display 370 (20 LEDs) is coupled to the microcontroller320 for providing a visual aid to a user who is performing aconfiguration function or who is simply monitoring the status of thetactile feedback controller 110. More specifically, the display allowsthe user to see the internal activity of the tactile feedback controller110, by activating the LEDs in a manner that illustrates the status ofmany different types of information. This information may include realtime audio sampling data, real time audio analysis data, direct digitalsignal control data, and various parameters that control aspects of thetactile feedback generated by the tactile feedback controller 110.Although the preferred embodiment has implemented this display as ahorizontal strip of 20 rectangular LEDs, this display can be implementedin many different ways or not at all.

For example, an alphanumeric liquid crystal display (LCD) having two (2)display lines of 12 characters can be used to display a parameter nameon the first LCD display line, and the parameter's numerical value onthe second LCD display line, followed by some unit label (e.g., seconds,percent, amplification, reduction, and the like, as necessary).Furthermore, simple messages such as “YES”, “NO”, and other words canalso be displayed on such an alphanumeric display, when appropriate.

Finally, tactile feedback controller 110 further incorporates aplurality of switches 360, which include a mode select switch, afunction select switch, and a rotary encoder switch. The functions ofthese switches are described in greater detail below. Although thepresent invention utilizes three hardware switches, those skilled in theart will realized that any number of switches, or no switches at all,can be implemented in the present invention.

FIG. 4 depicts a block diagram of the audio signal preprocessing section310. The audio signal preprocessing section 310 comprises a front endcircuit 410, a variable gain preamplifier 420, and three separate audiofilters/buffers 430-450.

More specifically, a stereo audio signal from the host computer 102enters the front-end circuit 410 within which the stereo audio signal iscombined into a composite signal. Namely, host computer 102 sends anaudio signal via audio cable 103, comprising a left audio channel and aright audio channel. The front end circuit 410 contains a mixer forcombining both channels of a stereophonic audio signal to form acomposite audio signal, a high pass filter for limiting noise that isbelow the audio band, e.g., lower than 20 Hz, and a diode signal limiterfor limiting (clipping) the amplitude of the input signal to protect theaudio signal preprocessing section 310 from overly powerful audio signalinputs. A detail circuit diagram of the front end circuit 410 isdepicted in FIG. 5.

The output from the front end circuit 410 then enters a variable gainpreamplifier 420. The variable gain preamplifier 420 establishes thedynamic range of the analog audio signal preprocessing section 310.Namely, the tactile feedback controller 110 provides the user with acalibration knob that varies the resistance provided by a potentiometer,which, in turn, determines the gain of the variable gain preamplifier420. For example, if the gain of the variable gain preamplifier 420 isset too high, the audio signal has a tendency to saturate and,consequently, the usefulness of the audio signal is compromised.Alternatively, if the gain of the variable gain preamplifier 420 is settoo low, the audio signal does not have sufficient dynamic range toprovide useful data to the host-independent section 112. A detailcircuit diagram of the variable gain preamplifier 420 is depicted inFIG. 6.

FIG. 6 illustrates a switch SW5 to address audio output signal ofdifferent strengths. Namely, a host computer 102 may typically producean audio signal in two different types of audio output signal strengths,i.e., amplified “speaker” outputs and non-amplified “line level”outputs. Most audio output cards allow a computer user to select asignal strength that is optimal for his or her audio equipment. However,older audio output cards often provided only amplified audio outputsignal strength on a single connector. Amplified “speaker” audio outputtypically provides 4 watts of amplification at 8 ohms resistance. Incases where the host computer 102 only has one audio output jack, thesingle output can be split via a readily available Y-type adapter thatwill provide two output jacks from the single pre-existing jack. Thus,the Y-adapter provides one connector for the user's speakers, and asecond connector for the user to couple the host computer to the tactilefeedback controller 110.

The second type of audio output signal strength is non-amplified “linelevel” audio output, which is commonly used by stereo equipment. Thisaudio output signal strength is typically meant for an external stereoamplifier, such that the audio output of the host computer 102 can bebroadcast from the user's home stereo system. Similarly, the line leveloutput jack can also be split, when necessary, with a Y-type adapter.

In order to accommodate these different audio signal strengths, thetactile feedback controller 110 provides a small two position switch(depicted as SW5 in FIG. 6), that changes the gain of the variable gainpreamplifier 420 as appropriate for the audio output signal strengthprovided by the host computer 102. This small switch is labeled SPKR andLINE, and is set by the user to match the signal provided by the audiooutput jack on the host computer 102.

In the SPKR position, the switch is closed, which effectively bypasses again inducing resistor. (R10 of FIG. 6) within the variable gainpreamplifier 420, thereby reducing the range of amplification availableto the variable gain preamplifier 420. In the LINE position, the switchis open, which effectively incorporates the otherwise bypassed gaininducing resistor (R10 of FIG. 6), thereby increasing the range ofamplification available to the variable gain preamplifier 420. In thismanner, the variable gain preamplifier 420 can maintain a useful rangeof amplification that is appropriate for the SPKR or LINE signalstrength. Thus, without this feature, the variable gain preamplifier 420would often be at its limits, e.g., at a low amplification setting whenused with an amplified SPKR signal, and at a high amplification settingwhen used with a non-amplified LINE signal, but rarely in the middle ofits effective range.

Referring back to FIG. 4, the variable gain preamplifier 420simultaneously feeds, via line 145, to three separate audio filters/peakhold buffers 430-450 that split the resulting audio signal intoindependent bass, midrange, and treble analog audio information streams.Namely, the original stereo audio signal exits the audio signalpreprocessing section 310 as three independent audio signals, composedof an analog bass signal on line 152, an analog midrange signal on line162, and an analog treble signal on line 172. Detail circuit diagrams ofthe treble audio filter and peak buffer 450, midrange audio filter andpeak buffer 440, and the bass audio filter and peak buffer 430, aredepicted in FIGS. 7-9 respectively.

The bass audio filter and peak hold buffer 430 uses a low pass filterthat passes low frequencies, e.g., below 338 Hz. The treble audio filterand peak hold buffer 450 uses a high pass filter that passes highfrequencies, e.g., above 1.6 KHz. In the preferred embodiment, themidrange audio filter and peak hold buffer 440 uses a differenceamplifier that removes the combined signals of the bass and treble audiofilters from the signal that exits the variable gain preamplifier 420.Namely, the midrange filter yields an audio signal that is essentiallywhat remains after the bass and treble frequencies have been isolated,combined, and then subtracted from the main signal. This reduces theoverlapping roll-off that occurs as the frequency responses of the highand low pass filters fade out and extend beyond their respectivefrequency cutoff properties. This ensures that the bass 430, midrange440, and treble 450 filters will yield independent signals that do notsuffer from too much frequency intersection.

Alternatively, a bandpass filter could be used in place of thedifference amplifier, in order to specifically pass a tunable bandillustratively centered at 1.2 KHz. It should be understood that thepresent invention can be implemented using other filter designs.

Each of the filtered bass, midrange, and treble signals enters a peakbuffer, which allows the respective filtered audio signals to stabilizeby charging a capacitor in each buffer, that then discharges at arelatively rapid rate. It is important for the three analog to digitalconverters 330 on the microcontroller 320 to sample stable signals, butthe primary purpose of these buffers is not to control the decay rate ofthe audio signal. The decay rate of each of the filtered audio signalsis determined by its own variable decay parameter that is used by theprocessor 340 in processing the sampled audio signal data. Thus, uponexiting the audio filters and peak hold buffers, each filtered audiostream is fed into its own analog to digital converter (ADC) 330.

FIG. 10 illustrates a flow chart of a method 1000 for generating controlsignals for tactile sensation generators under a host independent modeor a host dependent mode of operation. Method 1000 starts in step 1005and proceeds to step 1010, where the tactile feedback controller 110 isinitialized. The initialization step executes a power on reset sequencefor the microcontroller 320 which may include a RAM/ROM and I/O hardwareinitialization. Namely, the integrity of the RAM is verified and defaultinformation, such as stored variables and various tables, are loadedfrom the ROM and into the RAM of the microcontroller 320.

In step 1020, method 1000 queries whether the user wishes to invoke aspecial demonstration mode of the tactile feedback system. If the queryis positively answered, then method 1000 proceeds to step 1025, where ademonstration is presented to the user where various tactile sensationgenerators (including the LED display) are activated in a predeterminedsequence. If the query is negatively answered then method 1000 proceedsto step 1030, where the method 1000 queries whether configurationcommand is detected.

Generally, the demonstration mode is designed to be skipped, by default,unless the user performs the specific action that requests it. Morespecifically, the present invention checks to see if a specific button,the “Function Select” switch, is depressed by the user during the poweron reset sequence. In fact, the stored demonstration in the ROM can alsobe used as a manufacturing test to verify newly manufactured tactilefeedback controllers. By implementing a predetermined sequence that isdesigned to exercise all features of the tactile feedback controller andto activate every available tactile sensation generators, thedemonstration sequence can be used to detect malfunction. Thedemonstration lasts approximately 90 seconds.

Returning to step 1030, method 1000 queries whether a configurationcommand is detected. More specifically, in the present invention,configuration commands are provided in the form of a batch datatransmission. Batch data transmissions carry data that allows variousoperational parameters of the system to be reconfigured in real time.These batch data transmissions begin with a multi-stage trigger (code),which alternatively strobes back and forth between two predeterminedvalues. If the data present on the input ports of the tactile feedbackcontroller 110 is identified as a trigger strobe for a batch datatransmission, then method 1000 proceeds to step 1035 where theconfiguration commands/data within the batch data transmission areexecuted. Examples of functions that can be executed at this stepinclude: 1) changing display modes of various internal variables on theLED display (See Appendix A for a list of such display modes), 2)setting various tactile sensation generator power output parameters, and3) setting any of the audio postprocessing parameters at discussed belowin step 1065. Once all the configuration commands/data are serviced bythe tactile feedback controller 110, method 1000 proceeds to step 1040.

In step 1040, method 1000 queries whether host dependent mode isselected. If the query is negatively answered, then method 1000 proceedsto step 1065, where audio signal postprocessing is executed. If thequery is affirmatively answered, then method 1000 proceeds to step 1050,where method 1000 determines if digital control is active.

Namely, if the tactile feedback system is set in the host-independentaudio analysis mode, method 1000 executes the digital audio postprocessing procedure. If the tactile feedback system is not set in thehost-independent audio analysis mode, then the system is in thehost-dependent direct control mode by default.

In step 1050, method 1000 queries whether digital control has beenpreviously activated since the last power on reset. Namely, method 1000determines if a specific start code has been received at PORT A and PORTB. The specific start code indicates that a software application on thehost computer 102 is attempting to send digital signals to the tactilefeedback controller 110. More importantly, the initial reception of thisstart code would have initialized the host dependent section 114 of thetactile feedback controller 110. Such initialization places the hostdependent section 114 in condition to receive control signals from thehost computer. This start code is employed to keep the direct digitalcontrol mode from erroneously reacting to data on the parallel printerport bus that may not be intended for the tactile feedback controller110. This may occur if devices other than tactile feedback controllers110 are daisy chained along the parallel bus, such as printers, tapeback up drives, portable SCSI devices, and so on. If the query isaffirmatively answered, i.e., direct digital control was previouslyactivated, method 1000 proceeds to step 1060 where direct control signalpostprocessing is executed. If the query is negatively answered, method1000 proceeds to step 1055.

In step 1055, method 1000 queries whether a start code has been receivedand whether initialization is presently in progress. Namely, it ispossible that although host dependent section 114 is not in condition toreceive control signals from the host computer at step 1050, but it maybe in active condition pending the completion of initialization that iscurrently in progress. If the query is affirmatively answered, then step1055 proceeds to step 1060. In other words, method 1000 checks if thepreviously read data from the digital input ports represents apredetermined initialization and reset code. If so, direct digitalcontrol is activated, and method 1000 proceeds to step 1060 where thedigital control signal postprocessing is executed.

If the query is negatively answered, then step 1055 proceeds to step1050 and waits for the activation of the host dependent section 114.Namely, if the appropriate initialization and reset code is not present,digital control remains inactive, and returns to step 1050.

It should be noted that step 1060 and can be called to service new dataon the digital input ports by two primary means: polling the input portsfor new data, or responding to hardware interrupts generated by themicrocontroller 320 as determined by the capability of the selectedmicrocontroller. This polling and/or interrupt response occurs to insurethat no vital digital control signal data is missed.

In step 1070, method 1000 receives either postprocessed audio signalsfrom step 1065 or postprocessed direct digital signals from step 1060.Using these postprocessed signals, method 1000 generates the necessaryand appropriate control signals for the various tactile sensationgenerators 120. It should be understood that method 1000 will continueto operate until the tactile feedback controller 110 is turned off.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart for the method 1065 of postprocessing the audiosignals, i.e., the digital audio post-processing step 1065 of FIG. 10.Method 1065 starts in step 1105 and proceeds to step 1110 where the rawaudio signals on paths 152, 162 and 172 are digitized as illustrated inFIG. 4 above. Namely, analog to digital converters (ADC) 330 produces aset of three raw digital signals, BASS audio signal, MIDRANGE audiosignal and TREBLE audio signal.

In step 1120, the set of three raw digital signals, BASS audio signal,MIDRANGE audio signal and TREBLE audio signal are respectively processedwith a set of BASS, MIDRANGE and TREBLE audio analysis parameters (seeFIG. 12), which yields a calculated BASS result, a calculated MIDRANGEresult, and a calculated TREBLE result.

In step 1130, these three individual calculated audio results arecombined to yield a single host-independent master control signal fromaudio signal postprocessing analysis, which is then placed into theinternal RAM based digital control signal table (discussed below) forgenerating the control signals for the various tactile sensationgenerators. In the preferred embodiment, the calculated signals arecombined by simply selecting a value corresponding to the highest valueamong the three calculated values. However, other methods can beemployed, e.g., a weighted average calculation. Finally, in step 1140,method 1065 ends or returns to step 1070 of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart of a method 1120 for processing the raw audiosignals with a plurality of audio analysis parameters. Namely, the setof three raw digital signals, BASS audio signal, MIDRANGE audio signaland TREBLE audio signal in step 1110 of FIG. 11 are modified inaccordance with a set of audio analysis parameters. Although there are atotal of 33 parameters, e.g., 11 for each audio band (BASS, MIDRANGE,and TREBLE), FIG. 12 only illustrates 11 parameters since these sameparameters are applied to all three raw signals, with the exception ofhaving different audio band specific values for each raw signal. Thus,although FIG. 12 uses the audio band specific subscripts to identify theaudio band of BASS, it should be understood that the subscripts implythat BASS specific default values were employed to process the raw BASSsignal. Thus, although parameters with the same name have the samefunction, the actual value of each parameter is individuallyprogrammable for each of the three available audio bands, and onlyaffects the audio band to which its subscript specifically applies.Namely, FIG. 12 illustrates the audio analysis parameters that are usedto produce the three individual calculated audio results. It should benoted that the present invention is not limited by the number ofparameters that are employed.

The process by which these parameters are applied to each raw digitalaudio sample begins by copying the raw digital audio samples into threeindividual buffers within the RAM 342 of the microcontroller 320. Thesebuffers are referred to as the calculated bass result, the calculatedmidrange result, and the calculated treble result. Each of these threebuffers carries the cumulative results of the calculations that areperformed as the specific parameters of each parameter set illustratedin FIG. 12 are applied to change the values within the three buffers.This essentially yields three constantly changing calculated audioresult buffers while the original raw digital audio samples remainunchanged. In this fashion, the original raw digital audio samples arestored and made available for later use by other calculations within thedigital audio post-processing method. Ultimately, the three buffersemerge from the three audio analysis parameter sets as the final audioband specific calculated audio results.

Returning to FIG. 12, method 1120 starts in steps 1205 and proceeds tostep 1210 where the parameter Squelch is applied to the raw signal. TheSQUELCH parameter provides a means of ignoring audio signals that havean amplitude that is less than some desired threshold, e.g., 2% of themaximum signal value.

To illustrate, for an 8-bit digital audio sample, the maximum value is255 in binary. Thus, a 2% threshold equates to approximately a value of5 (0.02.times.255). If a raw digital sample is less than its appropriateSQUELCH parameter, the appropriate calculated result is forced to zero.If the raw digital sample is greater than or equal to its appropriateSQUELCH parameter, the appropriate calculated result is set equal to theoriginal raw digital sample.

In step 1220 and 1230, the next two parameters are PREAMP QUALIFIER andPREAMP MULTIPLIER, which function as a pair. These two parametersfunction together to provide a means of preamplifying quiet sounds bysome factor, while leaving louder sounds unaffected. This is useful, forexample, in helicopter simulations, where the sound of the rotor bladesspinning in the background can generally impart some useful velocity orengine activity cue, but such sound is typically very quiet so as not tobe overwhelming during the simulation. These two audio analysisparameters effectively allow these quiet sounds to be preamplified, suchthat the velocity or engine activity cue can be translated into usefultactile feedback, while not affecting louder sounds in the same manner.These two steps operate by comparing the current calculated audioresult, either bass signal, midrange signal, or treble signal to itsappropriate PREAMP QUALIFIER. If any given calculated audio result ishigher than its appropriate PREAMP QUALIFIER, the calculated audioresult is disqualified for preamplification, and its PREAMP MULTIPLIERis not implemented. However, if any given calculated audio result islower than its appropriate PREAMP QUALIFIER, the calculated audio resultis qualified for preamplification, and therefore multiplied (e.g.,amplified) by its PREAMP MULTIPLIER. The result of this calculationcannot be larger than the PREAMP QUALIFIER value that qualified themultiplication in the first place. If the result of this calculation islarger than the PREAMP QUALIFIER value, the result is set equal to thePREAMP QUALIFIER value. This eliminates the possibility that quietsounds will become over amplified.

In step 1240, the next parameter is the EQUALIZER. This step allows acurrent calculated audio result to be reduced or amplified, e.g.,equalized, by some factor. Specifically, the equalizer provides foreffectively multiplying any given calculated audio result by any numberbetween 0.00 and 8.00, with 0.03 increments. This yields approx. 32levels of reduction from 0% to 97% of the original value inapproximately 3% steps (e.g., multiplying any given calculated audioresult by any number between 0.00 and 0.97). This also yields approx.265 levels of amplification from 103% to approximately 800% of theoriginal value in approximately 3% steps (e.g., multiplying any givencalculated audio result by any number between 1.03 and 8.00 in 0.03steps). Although this equalizer range is very effective, the presentinvention is not limited by any default values or how this function ismathematically or otherwise implemented, and/or to the resolution andlimits of such calculations.

In step 1250, the next parameter is MAXIMUM. This parameter limits theresult of the EQUALIZER multiplication result to some highest allowedvalue, or maximum, e.g., no higher than 75% of the maximum level. TheMAXIMUM parameter limits high equalization results when relatively highamplitude signals are generated by the host computer 102. The MAXIMUMparameter is useful when high equalization values are used, and affectedupon high amplitude audio signals.

In step 1260, the next parameter is the RISE RATE. This parameterestablishes a maximum allowable rise rate between two sequential audiosamples. If the difference between a current digital audio sample andits corresponding prior sample is a positive value that exceeds the RISERATE parameter, e.g., a value corresponding from 20 ms. to 2 seconds,then the RISE RATE parameter is added to the prior of the two sequentialsamples, and the result is used in place of the most recent calculatedaudio result, thereby effectively yielding a reduced rise rate, inaccordance with the RISE RATE parameter.

In step 1270, the next parameter is the DECAY RATE. This parameterestablishes a maximum allowable decay rate between two sequential audiosamples. If the difference between a prior digital audio sample and itscorresponding current sample is a positive value that exceeds the DECAYRATE parameter, then the DECAY RATE parameter is subtracted from theprior of the two sequential samples, and this result is used in place ofthe most recent calculated audio result, thereby effectively yielding areduced decay rate, in accordance with the DECAY RATE parameter.

In steps 1280-1294, the last four parameters function together toprovide a means of interpreting various audio amplitude inducingsimulated events, and subsequently generating an appropriately strongtactile response. Essentially, it is very important to recognize abruptincreases in audio amplitude over some number of sequential digitalaudio samples. In games or simulations, any number of generallytraumatic events can occur that will require a very powerful response bythe tactile feedback controller 110 when it is operating in itshost-independent audio analysis mode. For example, a simulated car beingdriven by the simulation user may bump another simulated car, or crashinto a simulated object at a high velocity. Likewise, a simulated enemymissile or other simulated offensive/defensive weapon may strike asimulated vehicle being piloted by the simulation user. These types ofsimulated events, and others like them, are typically accompanied by anabrupt and varied rise in the amplitude of some appropriately providedsound effect (hereafter referred to as a “crash” event). However, thisrise in audio amplitude may not inherently have enough power, and/or maynot last long enough, to cause a powerfully appropriate tactile feedbackevent to match the simulated event.

In order to rectify this shortcoming, in steps 1280 and 1290 the nexttwo parameters, CRASH MAGNITUDE and CRASH TIME SPAN, together allow thecombined magnitude and time span of an abrupt rise in the digitallysampled audio to generate a “crash” response. The tactile feedbackresulting from this “crash” response is then controlled by the last twoparameters in step 1292 and 1294, CRASH HOLD and CRASH FADEOUT. TheCRASH MAGNITUDE parameter establishes the minimum rise in sampled audioamplitude that will qualify as a “crash” event. The CRASH TIME SPANparameter establishes the maximum time allowed for an acceptable CRASHMAGNITUDE rise to develop. For example, these parameters may look for arise in amplitude of 30% of the maximum possible amplitude, over a 0.125second time span. Together, these two parameters across all three audiobands provide for a very powerful and versatile method of detectingevents that require strong tactile feedback responses. If a sound eventgenerates a rise in audio amplitude that exceeds the CRASH MAGNITUDEparameter within the allowed CRASH TIME SPAN, a “crash” event istriggered. In such a case, the specific calculated audio result for theaudio band in which the crash event occurred is set to its highestpossible value, and is not subject to limitation by the previouslyexplained MAXIMUM parameter. This highest possible value is maintainedwithin the appropriate calculated audio result for the time specified inthe CRASH HOLD parameter, e.g., 0.25 sec. After the CRASH HOLD timeexpires, the CRASH FADEOUT parameter specifies the time, e.g., 0.1 sec.,that it will take to decay this highest possible output down to zero.This step allows “crash” tactile feedback responses to range from hardhitting, instantly decaying jolts, to instantly peaking and slowlydecaying waves. The decay in the “crash” event is preempted by new dataif subsequent audio samples generate a new rise in audio amplitude. Inthis manner, strong tactile feedback responses can be shaped as desired,and will be divorced entirely from the inherent strength and duration ofthe original “crash” sound event.

Once all three calculated audio results are processed with all of theirrespective parameters, method 1120 ends in step 1295 or returns to step1130 of FIG. 11, where the three individual values are combined to yielda host-independent master control signal from audio analysis. In turn,this audioderived control signal is then placed into the device 0“master device” entry in the internal RAM based digital control signaltable for power distribution as discussed below. It should be noted thatthe signal residing within the “master device” entry in the internal RAMis regarded as the master control signal, regardless as to how thissignal was generated. Namely, this signal can be generated by both thehost mode or the host dependent mode. Thus, a signal extracted from this“master device” entry (device 0) shall be referred to as the mastercontrol signal.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart of a method 1060 for direct control signalpostprocessing. Namely, it is a flow chart that illustrates theprocessing step of 1060 in FIG. 10. Method 1060 processes digitalcontrol signal data generated by the host computer 102 that is receivedfrom PORT A and PORT B in real time. This digital control signal datacan be implemented in numerous ways, with each approach carryingdifferent types of information within the transmitted data. For example,the digital control signal may be a simple, single code, that causes acourse of events to occur within the microcontroller 320. The digitalcontrol signal can be a set of values, which may include some tactilefeedback effect identification number, and some parameters to define theeffect, such as intensity, duration, step value, the included actuators,and so on. The only limitation on the implementation of any givencommunications protocol content is that the host computer 102 and thetactile feedback controller 110 must be in agreement as to theparticular syntax of the implemented communications protocol. Namely,the structure of the digital control signal that is generated by thehost computer 102 must be intelligible to the tactile feedbackcontroller 110. This is accomplished by programming the microcontroller320 inside the tactile feedback controller 110 with codes that arestored in its ROM 344, that are compatible with some predeterminedcommunications protocol, and, simultaneously, programming theapplication that will execute on the host computer 102 with the samepredetermined protocol. In this manner, the tactile feedback controller110 and the host computer 102 can communicate using a common protocolwith regard to the direct digital control signal. It should beunderstood that the present invention is not limited by the selection orimplementation of any particular communication protocol.

In the preferred embodiment, the digital control signal has two distinctcomponents: a “device value” and a “device activity value” appearing inPORT A and PORT B respectively. The device value designates the specificdevice that is to be affected by the accompanying device activity value.The device activity value, appearing on PORT B, designates the amount oftactile feedback that is to be generated by the designated device (PORTA). In the preferred embodiment, the device value is transmitted on the4-bit control signal, and the device activity value is transmitted onthe 8-bit data signal. Accordingly, PORT A is a 4-bit port that canreceive any value between 0-15, and PORT B is an 8-bit port that canreceive any value between 0-255. Therefore, the PORT A device value canbe any number between 0-15, and the PORT B device activity value can beany number between 0-255. Together, PORT A and PORT B represent a 12-bitcommunications bus between the host computer 102 and the tactilefeedback controller 110. However, if a wider communications bus isimplemented, the device pointer (PORT A) may have a greater numericalrange, as follows: a 5 bit PORT A would allow device pointer valuesbetween 0-31, a 6 bit PORT A would allow device pointer values between0-63, and so on. As the bus width gets greater, any number of data lineson that bus can be designated as PORT A, and any number of data linescan be designated as PORT B, or their respective equivalents.Additionally, if bidirectional data lines are utilized, any number ofavailable bi-directional lines can be designated as PORT A, PORT B, ortheir respective equivalents. Thus, the preferred embodiment is only anillustrative approach, as communication bus of different sizes and typescan be employed.

The device values physically implemented by any single tactile feedbackcontroller 110 are generally limited to the number of I/O pins that areprovided for Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control signal output.Therefore, it is likely that the range of possible device valuestransmitted over PORT A may outnumber any given single implementation ofPWM control signal generation output pins. In the present preferredembodiment, the microcontroller 320 has 8 I/O pins designated as controlsignal output pins.

Although the current 4-bit PORT A is permitted to transmit up to 16different device pointer values, the microcontroller 320 can onlyprovide 8 I/O pins. As a result, it is entirely possible for atransmitted PORT A device value to designate a specific device that isnot physically implemented by any given tactile feedback controller 110that may receive that device value. In such cases, that specific controlsignal is ignored by each tactile feedback controller 110 for which thatsignal is invalid.

The present invention is designed in such a way that many tactilefeedback controller 110 can be daisy chained together, by providing apass-through parallel port 117 on each controller. In this manner, eachand every tactile feedback controller 110 connected to the samecommunication bus will receive the same control signal, including thesame device pointer value. However, each tactile feedback controller 110may control a completely different and independent set of tactilesensation generators, by only responding to some subset of the possibledevice pointer values that it may receive. Tactile sensation generatorhardware that is connected to one tactile feedback controller 110 maynot be present on another controller. Each microcontroller 320 has somelimited number of available I/O pins that individually control thetransistor switch circuits 350 that subsequently power someconfiguration of multiple independent tactile sensation generators 120.Therefore, different tactile feedback controllers 110 can be designed torespond to some subset of the possible device pointer codes that it mayreceive. If a device pointer value is received that is not implementedby a specific tactile feedback controller 110, then that device pointerand its accompanying activity value will be ignored by that specificcontroller.

Returning to FIG. 13, method 1060 starts in step 1305 and proceeds tostep 1310 where method 1060 queries whether the received PORT A devicevalue is valid in view of the current specific hardware implementation.If the query is negatively answered, i.e., if the PORT A device value isnot valid for the specific hardware implementation, then method proceedsto step 1320 where the entire digital control signal is ignored. If thequery is affirmatively answered, i.e., if the PORT A device value isvalid for the current specific hardware implementation, method 1060proceeds to step 1330, where the PORT A device value is accepted as avalid device pointer.

In step 1340, the PORT B value is then accepted as the device activityvalue (for the device that is pointed to by PORT A). Method 1060 thenends in step 1345 or returns to step 1070 of FIG. 10, where controlsignals for the tactile sensation generators 120 are generated.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart of a method 1070 for generating control signalsfor tactile sensation generators. Namely, it is a flow chart thatillustrates the processing step of 1070 in FIG. 10. Method 1070 startsin step 1405 and proceeds to step 1410, where device values and deviceactivity values are written to a digital control signal table (1510shown in FIG. 15) in the RAM 342 of the microcontroller 320. Namely,under the host dependent mode, the PORT A device value designates aspecific numbered entry in an internal RAM based digital control signaltable (illustrated in FIG. 15) that ultimately stores the PORT B deviceactivity value. In this manner, an internal digital control signal tableis maintained within the microcontroller 320 that holds all of thedigital control signal data that is generated by the host computer 102.

The internal RAM based digital control signal table was initialized withzeros upon the last power on reset. Therefore, the default “deviceactivity” value of each entry in the digital control signal table is azero. The only event that can change the value of an entry in thedigital control signal table is a valid digital control signal. The PORTA device value actually points to the numbered entry in the table thatis to be changed. The PORT B activity value is the actual value that isinserted into the appropriate device entry in the digital control signaltable. In other words, the PORT B value is put into the digital controlsignal table at the device entry pointed to by PORT A. These tableupdates occur in real time when the host computer 102 changes itsdigital output signal, by hardware interrupts triggered by interruptdriven input ports on the microcontroller 320, or by polling the inputports at frequent intervals as determined by the ROM code within themicrocontroller 320.

In step 1420, the values in the digital control signal table 1510 arethen translated into power output entries within a second internal RAMtable, the multiple independent PWM control signal table 1530. Althoughthe power output values that populate the PWM control signal table arederived from the entries in the digital control signal table, they donot descend directly from the digital control signal table. In everycase, each device specific activity value is processed by its own devicespecific power output parameters (table 1520 of FIG. 15) before fillingits appropriate entry in the PWM control signal table. These poweroutput parameters give each device its specific properties.

In step 1430, method 1070 sends the relevant PWM control signals to therelevant tactile sensation generators via the transistor switch circuits350. Finally, method ends in step 1440. In the preferred embodiment, themethod 1000 of FIG. 10 continues until the tactile feedback controller110 is turned off.

The present translation is subjected to two unique functions. A uniqueproperty of the direct digital control mode used by the tactile feedbackcontroller 110 is that device values do not necessarily have to beactual tactile feedback devices. Pseudo-devices can be used to makecontrolling any and all connected tactile feedback devices as easy aspossible. The preferred embodiment uses two pseudodevices, but makes nospecific exclusion to using additional pseudo-devices that may have somepractical value. The two pseudo-devices that are used by the presentembodiment of the direct digital control mode are device 0 and device 9.Device 0 serves as a “master device”, and device 9 serves as a “directcontrol shortcut”. These pseudo-devices are absent from the PWM controlsignal table because they are not actual tactile feedback devices thatuse PWM output signals.

Device 0, the “master device”, does not apply to any specific deviceconnected to the tactile feedback system, but rather generally appliesto every device connected to the system. When the tactile feedbackcontroller 110 is initialized upon a power on reset, the internal RAMbased digital control signal table is filled with zeros. The only waythese default initial zero values can be changed is if a valid controlsignal provided by the host computer 102 intentionally changes them.Therefore, only devices that are receiving direct digital controlsignals may have their initial zero device activity values replaced withnew device activity values. Therefore, any and all specific devices thatare ignored by the software application that is executing host computer102 will indefinitely retain their initial zero device activity values.However, all devices that have zero values in their device activityvalue entries will follow all device activity values that are sent tothe “master device”, or device 0, via line 1540 of FIG. 15. Furthermore,in order for the direct digital control mode to become active, method1000 (software loop) checks for an initialization and reset code. Theinitialization and reset code is PORT A=0, PORT B=1. Therefore, theinitialization and reset code required to activate the direct digitalcontrol mode is essentially the command pair: device 0, activity 1. Theparallel port is a latching port, in that these values will be latchedand held by the parallel port until they are changed. Assuming that noadditional commands from the host computer 102 change the PORT A devicevalue, the device value will stay latched as device 0, e.g., the “masterdevice”. As the host computer 102 sends new activity values to PORT B,the digital control signal post-processing method (step 1060 of FIG. 10)will continue to read PORT A as 0, and PORT B as the most recentactivity value sent by the host computer 102. The digital control signalpost-processing method will then update the device 0 slot in theinternal RAM based digital control signal table with the new PORT Bactivity value. This process will repeat as often as PORT B is updated.The net result of these PORT B updates is a digital control signal tableloaded with its default zero values for all devices 1-15, but with aconstantly changing device 0 “master device” activity value. When thetranslation of the digital control signal table 1510 occurs, the firstvalue from the digital control signal table to be subject to PWMtranslation is the device 1 activity value entry.

Referring now to FIG. 15, the device 1 activity value will be somenumber between 0 and 255 (an 8 bit value, as determined by the bus widthof PORTB). If the device 1 activity value is zero, the device 0 activityvalue is used for PWM translation in lieu of the device 1 zero activityvalue. If the device 1 value is non-zero, the device 1 activity valueitself is used for PWM translation. This process is repeated for all ofthe device activity entries (device 2-device N) in the digital controlsignal table 1510 as each one gets translated into a PWM value for thePWM control signal table 1530. This process, illustrated by line 1540 ofFIG. 15, is how the “master device” device 0 propagates throughout allof the devices that are in the “follow the master” mode (e.g., having azero in their activity value entry). As each device specific activityvalue is translated into a PWM value, it is processed by various devicespecific power output parameters 1520 that ultimately produce the finaldevice specific PWM value in the PWM table 1530.

There is a vast array of tactile sensation actuators 501 that can beused by the present invention. Electric motors, solenoids, hydraulicrods and pistons, pneumatic valves, and piezoelectric transducers arejust a few examples. Each of these various types of actuators can existsin many different sizes, with many different power requirements andoperating ranges of power consumption for each implementation. In orderto accommodate the wide range of electromechanical devices that can becontrolled by the universal tactile feedback controller 110, eachspecific device type can impose limits on the power signals that it willaccept. This is accomplished by reprogrammable device specific poweroutput parameters 1520. Although the presently preferred embodiment usesthree device specific power output parameters 1520 for each device, nospecific limitation is to be inferred with regard to additional devicespecific power output parameters that may be useful for any givenspecific type of device or actuator that may be implemented by thesystem of the present invention.

The first device specific power output parameter 1520 is determined bythe main power supply voltage in use by the universal tactile feedbackcontroller 110, and the power supply range that is appropriate for anygiven tactile sensation actuator 501. In order to tailor the powersupply voltage so that it becomes appropriate for any given device, a“duty cycle” power output parameter is used. For example, if the mainpower supply applied to a given device specific transistor switchcircuit 2551-2558 (see FIG. 25) is 20 volts, and a specific tactilesensation actuator 501 that is to be driven by that transistor switchcircuit 2551-2558 has been rated for a 12 volt power supply, a devicespecific power output “duty cycle” parameter can scale the provideddevice activity value to 60% of its original value before inserting itwithin the appropriate device entry in the PWM control signal table1530. This will effectively create an average maximum power level of 12volts, which is the rated power range for the tactile sensation actuatorin question. By multiplying any given device activity value by a devicespecific “duty cycle” power output parameter 1520 (e.g., a numberbetween 0.00 and 1.00 in 0.03 increments), the universal tactilefeedback controller 110 can use one power supply to support manydifferent devices. Furthermore, the “duty cycle” can be set above 100%,to increase the power to any given tactile sensation actuator when thatdevice is operating at less than the actual provided voltage (e.g., youcan not convert a 20 volt signal into a 40 volt signal by setting itsduty cycle at 200%). Allowing device specific duty cycle parameters canreduce the complexity and cost of the universal tactile feedback system100 by allowing a single main power supply to support the individualpower requirements of many different devices. However, the presentlypreferred embodiment makes no exclusion to using individual powersupplies or regulated voltage lines for each device that may beimplemented by the present invention. In fact, the presently preferredembodiment uses two voltage sources in order to limit reliance on “dutycycle” parameter implementation. If a main power supply voltage of 20volts was being used to drive a tactile sensation actuator 501 with amaximum operating voltage of 5 volts, that device would have to use a25% duty cycle parameter. Although this setting can be used, it wouldeffectively reduce the maximum possible pulse width “ON” time to no morethan ¼ of its normal “ON” time at a 100% duty cycle. This may create“choppy” actuation within the actuator, as it would be receiving 20volts for 25% of the time, and 0 volts for 75% of the time, for a PWMaverage of 5 volts. A better implementation would be a supply voltage of10 volts at 50% duty cycle, which is why the presently preferredembodiment incorporates just such a second voltage line.

The second device specific power output parameter 1520 is determined bythe user's personal intensity preferences with regard to the desiredintensity that is to be generated by any given tactile sensationactuator 501. Due to the different types and numbers of tactilesensation actuators that can be simultaneously driven by the universaltactile feedback controller 110, the user may desire to individuallyreduce or increase the tactile feedback generated by any given actuator.Although the “duty cycle” parameter sets the operating range of voltagethat can be applied to any given actuator, the duty cycle setting isdetermined solely by the power requirements of a specific actuator. The“personal intensity preference” device specific parameter is determinedsolely by the user's personal preference with regard to the tactilefeedback produced by any given specific tactile sensation actuator 501.This parameter is implemented in a similar way to the duty cycleparameter, in that the device activity value is multiplied by theappropriate device specific intensity parameter (e.g., a number between0.00 and 2.00 in 0.03 increments).

The third device specific power output parameter 1520 is a “minimumactivation value” which determines the activity threshold below whichany given device will remain off. In the presently preferred embodiment,the minimum activation value parameter is not applied to non-zero deviceactivity values, as non-zero device activity values necessarily meanthat a given device is currently under direct digital control. If adevice has a zero device activity value in the digital control signaltable 1510, then that device is being ignored by the host computer foras long as the zero activity value is present (e.g., that device is inthe “follow the master” mode). For example, imagine a device that has aminimum activation value of 70%. As long as the master device (device 0)activity value is less than 70% of the possible maximum value, the PWMvalue for that device in the PWM control signal table 403 will always bezero, and that device will remain OFF. If and only if the master device(device 0) activity value equals or exceeds the 70% minimum activationvalue for the specific device in question, will the PWM value in the PWMcontrol signal table 1530 accept the master device's activity value forimplementation by that specific device. In that case, the acceptedactivity value (that is greater than or equal to the minimum activationvalue) will still be subject to the other device specific power outputparameters 1520 for that device.

Additional device specific power output parameters 1520 that may beimplemented can be range specific power manipulation values, that reduceor amplify the power generated by a given device by some value that isdetermined by the power output level of that device. For example, if adevice is following the master device, and the activity value of themaster device is between 0% and 25%, the given device might reduce thisvalue by 50% before implementing the value. If the activity of themaster device is between 25% and 65%, the given device might reduce thisvalue by 20% before implementing the value. If the activity of themaster is between 65% and 100%, the given device might amplify thisvalue by 120% before implementing the value. This is but one illustratedpossibility of additional device specific power output parameters, whichare not specifically limited by this disclosure.

FIG. 15 illustrates the relationship between the digital control signaltable 1510, device specific power output parameters table 1520 and thePWM control signal table 1530. The “master device” takes effect when theinternal RAM based digital control signal table 1510 is translated intoanother table, the internal RAM based multiple independent PWM controlsignal table 1530. Each time the translation step is executed, the PWMcontrol signal table is loaded with actual Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)power output values that descend from the digital control signal table1510. If a device activity value other than master device (device 0) isa zero, the activity value from the master device is translated into adevice specific PWM value according to the appropriate device specificpower output parameters 1520, and is then loaded into the multipleindependent PWM control signal table 1530 in place of the absent devicespecific direct control signal.

In other words, the device specific PWM values that actually control thepower output of every tactile sensation actuator connected to the systemwill follow the “master device” activity value for each and every devicethat has a zero activity value. Thus, the master device activity valueis translated into a device specific PWM value by filtering the masteractivity value through various device specific power output parameters1520 that control how each and every device follows the master activityvalue.

For example, if ten independent tactile sensation generators are allconnected via daisy chained tactile feedback controllers, and all tentactile sensation generators have zero values in their respectiveinternal RAM based digital control signal tables, all ten tactilesensation generators will follow the single master device activity valuein their own unique manner, as determined by their own device specificpower output parameters. Therefore, all devices that have a zero intheir activity value table entry will “follow” the “master device”, vialine 1540 of FIG. 15. Every other device with a non-zero activity valuein its digital control signal table 1510 entry will not follow themaster device activity value. Any device (excluding pseudo-devices suchas 0 and 9) that has a non-zero value in its digital control signaltable entry 1510, will follow its own device specific activity value,which exempts that device from following the master device's activityvalue.

Device activity values, coming in via 8-bit PORT B, can be any 8-bitvalue from 0 to 255. An activity value of 0 tells any given device to“follow” the “master device”. An activity value of 1 is always OFF,e.g., generating no tactile feedback. Any activity value between 2 and255 generates tactile feedback in direct proportion to that value, wherean activity value of 2 represents the smallest possible tactilefeedback, and an activity value of 255 represents the greatest possibletactile feedback. Any activity value given to a specific device isalways processed by that device's specific power output parameters whenthe PWM control signal table 1530 gets filled. Any specific device willimmediately enter its “follow the master” mode upon receiving anactivity value of zero. Alternatively, any specific device willimmediately enter its direct control mode upon receiving some non-zerovalue. In this way, the host computer 102 can take direct control ofsome specific device for some temporary time frame, and then place thatdevice back into its “follow the master” mode when it is throughdispensing that specific device's control signal. Device 9, the “directcontrol shortcut”, does not apply to any specific device connected tothe system, but rather generally applies to every device that ispresently under direct control, e.g., not in its “follow the master”mode. Essentially, it provides a quick and simple means ofsimultaneously addressing every single device entry in the internal RAMbased digital control signal table 1510 that is occupied by a non-zerovalue. For example, if a system was implemented wherein eight individualtactile sensation generators were all under device-specific directcontrol, and none were in the “follow the master” mode, all eight couldbe turned off with a single command that addressed the “direct controlshortcut” pseudo-device (e.g., device code 9). Sending the singlecommand pair “device 9, activity 1” (equivalent to PORT A 9, PORT B 1)will turn all such devices off, by loading each directly controlleddevice's digital control signal table 1510 activity entry with sameactivity value (PORT B=1) that was sent to device 9 (PORT A=9). Theprocessing that accomplishes this occurs entirely within themicrocontroller 320, and does not require any additional digital controlsignal data from the host computer 102.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart of the batch data transmission method used instep 1035 of FIG. 10. Batch data transmissions are used to reprogramvarious operational parameters within the tactile feedback controller110. The batch data transmission method is invoked by the method 1000 ofFIG. 10 when a batch data transmission trigger is present on the digitalinput ports PORT A and PORT B. In the preferred embodiment, the batchdata transmission trigger is composed of two alternating strobe signalsthat repeat four or more times. The first strobe signal is PORT A=15,PORT B=7, and the second strobe signal is PORT A=15, PORT B=8.Essentially, PORT A is set to the value 15, and PORT Balternates/strobes between the values 7 and 8, at an approximate minimuminterval of 3 milliseconds. These strobe signals can be repeated as manytimes as necessary to ensure that they are received by themicrocontroller 320. This batch data transmission trigger could beimplemented in many other ways, however, while still achieving the sameend, e.g., activating the batch data transmission method's receive mode.

Returning to FIG. 16, method 1600 starts in step 1605, and proceeds tostep 1610, where method 1600 checks if all the required trigger strobeshave been completed. If they have not been completed, step 1615 checksto see if the next trigger strobe timer has expired. This trigger strobetimer exists as a safety to make sure that each valid trigger strobefollows the prior strobe by no more than some maximum time frame, suchas 0.200 seconds. If a trigger strobe stagnates or deviates from theexpected sequence before it completes the necessary strobe count, thetrigger strobe counter is reset in step 1620, and subsequently returnsto step 1630. This insures that the batch data transmission receiveroutine is not invoked unless a valid trigger set is received in atimely fashion. If the trigger strobe timer has not expired, the batchdata transmission method continues to wait (e.g., does not reset thecounter) for the next trigger strobe component in step 1625, andsubsequently returns to the main software loop in step 1630.

Alternatively, if the batch data transmission method 1600 determines instep 1610 that all of the required trigger strobes have been received(typically 4 pairs of strobe triggers), the actual batch datatransmission receive mode is entered in step 1635.

In the preferred embodiment, the batch data transmission method is a oneway communication. To ensure the validity of the data received, a robustlock step method is used. Although the preferred embodiment hasimplemented this illustrative approach, any data transmission methodcould equally be used in its place, provided the appropriatecorresponding method was implemented in the software that generates theactual data transmissions, and the ROM code within the microcontroller320 that receives those same data transmissions. The preferredembodiment makes no specific exclusion to using some other datatransmission routine and/or the trigger that signifies the start of thecommunication.

Returning to FIG. 16, each cycle through the batch data transmissionreceive mode begins at step 1665, by waiting until a zero appears onPORT A. Steps 1665 and 1670 together yield an endless loop that is onlybroken when the external software sets PORT A equal to zero. After PORTA equals zero, the external software sets PORT B equal to the value itwishes to transfer in step 1675. In the meantime, steps 1680 and 1685together yield an endless loop that is only broken when PORT A does notequal zero. In this way, the external software can allow PORT B tostabilize before the external software transmits a non-zero PORT Avalue. The next non-zero value on PORT A may be the “end transmission”code, which the preferred embodiment sets as 15. If this “endtransmission” code is present, step 1690 recognizes it, exits the datatransmission receive mode in step 1660, and ultimately returns to themain software loop via step 1630. If the end transmission code is notpresent, the non-zero value that appears on PORT A will be a pointer fora permanently encoded table in the ROM of the microcontroller 320. Thispointer determines which reprogrammable internal parameter within theRAM of the microcontroller 320 will be changed to the PORT B value. Thisis illustrated in step 1655. In order to insure that the PORT B value islegal for the parameter that is pointed to by PORT A, each parameter hasinternal checks to make sure the PORT B value will not cause undesirableoperation if and when it is implemented. If the PORT B value is illegalfor the parameter pointed to by PORT A, the value is rejected in step1640, and the entire cycle begins again in step 1665. If the PORT Bvalue is legal for the parameter pointed to by PORT A, the value isaccepted into the designated parameter in step 1645, and the entirecycle begins again in step 1665. In cases where the amount ofreprogrammable parameters outnumbers the range of values capable ofbeing transmitted on PORT B (in this case, 4 bit PORT B can transmitvalues 0-15, with 0 and 15 used to begin and end the transmission,respectively), each pointer (values 1-14) can be used multiple times bydesignating a different variable each time the same pointer is used. Atany rate, the batch data transmission method ultimately ends with thepreviously described “end transmission” code (PORT B value 15). This“end transmission” code causes the batch data transmission method toexit the receive mode in step 1660, and ultimately return to the method1000 via step 1630. The method 1000 then resumes at step 1040 (see FIG.10).

The batch data transmission method of FIG. 16 can be invoked by eitherone of two versions of external batch data transmission softwareapplications that run on the host computer 102. The first of these twoapplications is the “no user intervention” version, depicted in FIG. 17.The “no user intervention” version is typically executed to quickly andeasily configure the tactile feedback controller 110 for use with somespecific game or simulation and the appropriate tactile sensationgenerators for that application, by sending preset configuration filesout to the tactile feedback controller 110. The second of these twoapplications is the “user intervention” version, depicted in FIG. 18.The “user intervention” version is typically executed to create, modify,and save configuration files for later use with the “no userintervention” version of the batch data transmission softwareapplication. FIG. 19 depicts the host-independent audio analysiscalibration method, which always incorporates one version of the twobatch data transmission software applications (FIGS. 17 and 18).Referring to FIG. 17, the “no user intervention” version 1700 of thebatch data transmission software application is used to send presetconfiguration files to the tactile feedback controller 110. In general,the user defines the preset configuration file that is to be transmittedto the tactile feedback controller 110, and that file is transmitted bythe no user intervention version 1700 of the software by communicatingwith the batch data transmission method 1600 within the microcontroller320. The user can designate the specific configuration file that is tobe transmitted through several different means. In the preferredembodiment, the user enters a single command at a standard DOS commandline. The single DOS command consists of the name of the executable filethat actually is the no user intervention software program, and followsit with the name of the preset configuration file that is to betransmitted. Alternatively, the user can click an icon within theirgraphical user interface operating system (e.g., Windows 3.1, 95, 98,NT, etc.), which will eliminate the need to enter a DOS command. Theicon can be linked to both the preset configuration file, and theapplication that it is intended for, such that clicking the single icontransmits the preset configuration file to the tactile feedbackcontroller 110 and subsequently launches the desired application. The nouser intervention version 1700 of the batch data transmission softwareapplication can be implemented in many ways, and therefore, theseillustrative solutions do not intend to limit how this may beaccomplished. Every specific configuration file contains configurationdata that is specific for some given application. The defaultconfiguration file, however, contains configuration data for some givenimplementation of the entire tactile feedback system 100. The defaultconfiguration file is used as a basis for the specific configurationfiles, such that the default configuration file is always loaded first,and the specific configuration file is loaded on top of the defaultfile. Generally, only specific configuration data that differs from thesettings in the default configuration file are saved into the specificconfiguration files. In this manner, the user can change theconfiguration data for the tactile feedback system 110 without having tochange every single specific configuration file that exists, by simplychanging the data in the default configuration file.

Referring to FIG. 17, method starts in step 1705 and proceeds to step1710, where the no user intervention method 1700 of the batch datatransmission software application loads the default settings from thedefault configuration file. Then, in step 1720, it loads the specificsettings from the user designated application specific configurationfile. The default configuration settings, together with the applicationspecific configuration settings, comprise a complete configuration dataset that step 1730 transmits to the tactile feedback controller 110.This transmission occurs via the parallel cable 104 and the protocoloutlined in the batch data transmission method (see FIG. 16). Ifapplication specific audio analysis calibration instructions werecontained within the application specific configuration file, thoseaudio analysis calibration instructions are displayed in step 1740.These displayed calibration instructions are utilized by thehost-independent audio analysis calibration routine 1900 (see FIG. 19).

The calibration instructions are typically displayed until the userpresses some designated key to terminate the calibration instructionsdisplay. If the user is already familiar with the calibrationinstructions for any given application (and/or has printed them out forreference), and therefore does not need to see them each time thespecific configuration file that contains them is loaded, a command lineswitch can be used to keep the calibration instructions from beingdisplayed. Generally, the loading and transmission of configuration datatakes no more time than a fraction of a second. Method 1700 then ends instep 1745.

FIG. 18 is a flow chart of a “user intervention” method 1800 to triggerthe batch data transmission method. Method 1800 starts in step 1805 andproceeds to step 1810 where method 1800 loads the default settings fromthe default configuration file. Then, step 1820 presents a graphicaluser interface so the user can easily manipulate all of theconfiguration data. Included in this “manipulation of configurationdata” is loading both specific and default configuration files. In orderto load any given configuration file, the user will typically select thefile from a directory listing, which can be browsed with a mouse orother pointing device. Loading a given configuration file, or changingany single configuration parameter, are both interpreted as changes inthe configuration data in step 1830. While both versions 1700 and 1800of the batch data transmission software application can transmit thecomplete configuration data set, the graphical user interface userintervention method 1800 can transmit individual parameters as they aremanipulated by the user in step 1860. By transmitting changes inconfiguration data to the tactile feedback controller 110 as they occurin step 1860, the user can efficiently discover optimal specificconfiguration data settings while the tactile feedback system 100 is inuse. This is especially useful for discovering the best audio analysisparameters. When the configuration data is acceptable, the user can savethe current configuration data in step 1840. The method then saves theappropriate type of configuration file (default or applicationspecific), creating new files when necessary in step 1870. The user canterminate the user intervention version 1800 by using an exit option instep 1850 to arrive at step 1875.

When application specific configuration files are created for use withthe host-independent audio analysis mode of operation, audio analysiscalibration instructions are provided within the application specificconfiguration files. In order for the audio analysis mode to be mosteffective, the audio signal produced by the host computer 102 must beconsistent with the audio signal that was used to set the audio analysisparameters that are contained within a given specific configurationfile. This consistency between the audio signal from the host computer102 and the audio signal that was used to set the audio analysisparameters is achieved with the host-independent audio analysiscalibration routine 1900 of FIG. 19.

Referring to FIG. 19, the calibration method 1900 begins with step 1905and proceeds to step 1910, wherein the user loads the desiredapplication specific configuration file with either batch datatransmission software 1700, 1800. In the case of the no userintervention version 1700, the provided audio analysis calibrationinstructions are displayed for the user on screen 1740 (see FIG. 17). Inthe case of the user intervention version 1800, the provided audioanalysis calibration instructions must be selected for display byselecting them from a graphical pull-down menu. In either case, the usertakes note of the provided calibration instructions in step 1920. Thiscan include printing the provided instructions. After the user has takennote of the calibration instructions, the user runs the desiredapplication in step 1930.

The calibration instructions were created, at some point in time,typically with the user intervention method 1800 of the batch datatransmission software application. Within that method 1800, a texteditor is provided so calibration instructions can be recorded. When anapplication specific audio analysis calibration file is being created,and the audio analysis settings are acceptable to the person creatingthe file, the calibration potentiometer (component part R8 of FIG. 6)within the variable gain pre-amplifier 420 of the analog audio signalpre-processing section would have been previously adjusted to thesatisfaction of the person creating the configuration file. Thecalibration potentiometer adjusts the signal strength of the audiosignal such that the audio signal is neither too weak, nor too strong.When the audio analysis parameters are yielding good results, the personcreating the calibration instructions looks to find a relatively commonsound effect occurring within the simulation. When the person who iscreating the calibration instructions hears a common sound effect, theyobserve the status of the LEDs within the system analysis display.Within the calibration instructions, they describe what common soundeffect to listen for, and the number of LEDs on the system analysisdisplay that are illuminated in response to the common sound effect(when the calibration potentiometer is properly set).

Referring again to FIG. 19, the user waits until the desired applicationis generating the common sound effect that was specified in thecalibration instructions. When the specified sound effect is heard instep 1940, the user adjusts the calibration potentiometer (via knob 2430of FIG. 24) until the LEDs within the system analysis display appearapproximately as specified within the calibration instructions. When theLEDs within the system analysis display 370 appear approximately asspecified in the calibration instructions, indicated by step 1950, itmeans the audio signal generated by the host computer 102 is occurringat the same approximate amplitude as the audio signal that was used toset the application specific audio analysis parameters. Once the audiosignal from the host computer 102 is an approximate match to theoriginal audio signal that was used to set the audio analysisparameters, the tactile feedback resulting from the audio analysis modeof operation will be substantially similar to the results perceived bythe person who created the corresponding specific configuration file. Inother words, the audio signal will have been calibrated successfully. Instep 1960, the user can continue to fine adjust the calibrationpotentiometer (and all other parameters) as personally desired to tweakand otherwise change the tactile feedback produced by the system. Method1900 ends in step 1965.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart that illustrates a method 2000 of activatingLEDs. Referring to FIG. 20, the first step fills a RAM buffer for thesystem analysis display as determined by the currently active displaymode (see box 2410 of FIG. 24). The display mode parameter determinesthe configuration of the 20 LEDs, the method by which data is to bedisplayed, and the actual data that is to be displayed. When the systemanalysis display mode parameter is changed, either from a batch datatransmission or from new input from the hardware switch multiplexer, aspecial temporary identification mode of blinking LEDs is implemented onthe LED display, in order to inform the user what display mode is aboutto be engaged. Each display mode has its own unique blinking LEDsindicator, which identifies the display mode that is about to take overthe entire LED display 370. The duration of the blinking LEDs systemanalysis display mode identifier can be set to last anywhere between0.20 and 25.0 seconds. When this variable timer expires, the requesteddisplay mode is subsequently engaged. The display buffer is loaded witha digital representation of the physical display, which is illuminatedon the actual LEDs in a multiplexed manner. The 20 LED system analysisdisplay 370 is composed of 5 groups of 4 LEDs, that together compose ahorizontal strip of 20 LEDs (see FIGS. 22 and 23). In order to save bothpower and I/O pins on the microcontroller 320, only 1 multiplexed groupof LEDs is illuminated at any given time. As a result, when all 20 LEDsappear to be illuminated at once, only 4 LEDs are actually illuminated.However, because the switching of these LEDs via multiplexing occurs ata very rapid rate (e.g., 60-120 Hz or higher), human persistence ofvision provides the illusion that all 20 LEDs are illuminated at once.This multiplexing occurs as each step 2020-2060 in the system analysisdisplay multiplexer is executed. Step 2020 illuminates LEDs 1-4 as thedisplay buffer dictates. Step 2030 illuminates LEDs 5-8 as the displaybuffer dictates. Step 2040 illuminates LEDs 9-12 as the display bufferdictates. Step 2050 illuminates LEDs 13-16 as the display bufferdictates. Step 2060 illuminates LEDs 17-20 as the display bufferdictates. Then, the system analysis display repeats steps 2010-2060,with one individual step being executed each time the multiplexer isinvoked.

FIG. 21 is a flow chart that illustrates a hardware switch multiplexingmethod 2100. Referring to FIG. 21, these three steps read the physicalstate of all three hardware switches of FIG. 24 on the tactile feedbackcontroller 110, and alter internal variables as necessary to reflect thestate of those switches. The first step 2110 reads the main mode selectswitch (2420 of FIG. 24) and sets the main mode variable as appropriate.The main mode switch is a toggle switch that has two possible positionswhich are mutually exclusive. The position of this switch selects themain operating mode of the tactile feedback controller 110. With switch2420 in a first position, the tactile feedback controller 110 operatesin its host-independent audio analysis mode. With switch 2420 in asecond position, the tactile feedback controller 110 operates in itshost-dependent direct control mode. The second step 2120 reads thefunction select switch (2440 of FIG. 24) and links the third switch(2450 of FIG. 24) to some specific function. The function select switchis a spring loaded, short travel, normally open push button switch. Eachtime this switch is pressed, the rotary encoder is linked to a differentfunction. The functions that are available to this process are somesmall subset of the many reprogrammable parameters that can bemanipulated by the two external batch data transmission softwareapplications. This subset of reprogrammable parameters is listed in box2410 of FIG. 24. The item in the list that is currently linked to therotary encoder has its own indicator LED, as shown in box 2310 of FIG.23. The letters 2310 beneath the indicator LEDs correspond to thefunction list 2410. At that time, LEDs 11-20 illuminate to display thevalue of the selected parameter. Each time the function select pushbutton 2440 is pressed, the next function in the function list 2410 islinked to the function adjust rotary encoder 2450, the appropriateindicator LED 2310 is illuminated, and the value associated with thatparameter is shown on the LEDs 11-20. The third step 2130 reads themulti-purpose rotary encoder 2450 and adjusts the linked function 2410as appropriate. The rotary encoder is a forty-position digital encoderthat spins freely in both directions. It generates what is known as“gray code” a simple binary data stream that indicates its direction andspeed of rotation. Generally, when rotated in a clockwise fashion, itincreases the value that it is adjusting. Alternatively, when rotated ina counter-clockwise fashion, it decreases the value that it isadjusting. The numerical steps it uses when adjusting some variablewithin the RAM of the microcontroller 320 are subject to arbitrarylimits set within the ROM code within the microcontroller 320. Theselimits keep the adjusted values from causing undesirable operation. Thefunction select push button 2440, and the function adjust rotary encoder2450, both work together as a multi-purpose pair. By providing these twoswitches, a single rotary encoder can replace many potentiometers andother rotary encoders by allowing the single rotary encoder switch toadjust many individual variables. This process (including switches 2440and 2450, and the LED display 370) allows important values to bemanipulated directly from the tactile feedback controller 110 itself,without external software running. Although the preferred embodiment hasimplemented these three switches, the present invention makes nolimitation on how these switches can be implemented, if at all.Furthermore, additional switches may prove useful, and no specificimplementation is declared to limit some other set of switches, or lackthereof. This set of hardware switch multiplexer method 2100 repeatssteps 2110-2130.

FIG. 25 is a functional block diagram of both the multiple independentPWM control signal generation component 2504, and the PWM outputs 2540of microcontroller 320. Each of the eight individual PWM independentcontrol signal output pins 2541-2548 renders a PWM signal as dictated byits corresponding value in the multiple independent PWM control signaltable. Each of these independent PWM output signals 2541-2548 controls acorresponding independent transistor switch circuit 2551-2558. The eighttransistor switch circuits 2551-2558 together comprise the transistorswitch circuits 360 component of FIG. 3. Each microcontroller PWM outputpin 2541-2548 is used by one transistor switch circuit 2551-2558 to turnon and off one or more tactile sensation actuators 501 within someindependent tactile sensation generator (depicted as 502, 503, 504). Agiven transistor switch circuit 2551-2558, in response to the output ofits corresponding PWM output pin 2541-2548, becomes activated, e.g.,conducts current, such that the appropriate transistor switch circuit2551-2558, once activated, allows current to pass through one or moreactuators 501 to ground. In response, the actuators 501, e.g., DC motorswith offset weights attached to their shafts, vibrate. As a PWM signal2541-2548 that drives a DC motor increases its pulse width, the DC motorreceives more current and spins faster, thereby yielding more powerfultactile sensation (e.g., vibration). Although the PWM output signals2541-2548 provide a wide range of pulse widths, some actuators 501 (suchas solenoids) may require only a digital type signal composed of twopulse widths: ON (e.g., 100% pulse width), and OFF (0% pulse width),which correspond to binary 1 and binary 0, respectively. In such a case,the PWM output signals can be limited accordingly, when necessary.Furthermore, the microcontroller 320 does not necessarily have to usethe Pulse Width Modulation technique to control the transistors 2550 andactuators 501 it controls. Many other techniques can readily beimplemented by those skilled in the art.

In the presently preferred embodiment, each single tactile feedbackcontroller 110 provides eight independent outputs 2541-2548 that aredriven in the previously described manner. However, there is no specificlimitation imposed on how many such outputs are to be provided withinany single tactile feedback controller 110. The only limiting factor isthe number of I/O pins available on the microcontroller 320.Furthermore, many microcontrollers 320 can be working in parallel toprovide as many I/O pins as are necessary to sustain any imaginedimplementation. Additionally, many tactile feedback controller 110 unitscan be daisy chained together, theoretically allowing as many tactilefeedback controller 110 units to provide as many desired outputs as theelectrical properties of the connections in the host computer 102 allow,until the total resistance and capacitance of the cables in such aconfiguration prohibitively degrade the transmission of thatinformation. Even in such a case, analog and digital signal hubs can beused to boost the signals carried over the connections.

Ultimately, the PWM signals 2541-2548 that control the outputs from thetransistor switch circuits 2551-2558 can be used to control anyelectromechanical device. Each transistor switch circuit 2551-2558 canuse its own power supply and transistor type that is appropriate for theactuator or actuators that it is intended to drive. There should be noinferred limitation regarding the power consumption of any givenactuator based upon the PWM signal 2541-2548 that controls it. However,for simplicity, this disclosure generally implies DC motors with offsetweights for its tactile sensation actuators 501. As a PWM signal2541-2548 that drives a DC motor increases its pulse width, the DC motorreceives more current and spins faster, thereby yielding more powerfultactile sensation (e.g., vibration).

The illustrated independent tactile sensation generators 502, 503, 504can contain one or more independent tactile sensation actuators 501,with each independent tactile sensation actuator 501 containing one ormore individual actuators working in series or parallel. For example,independent tactile sensation generator 502 contains one set of tactilesensation actuators 501 which responds to one transistor switch circuit2551. Independent tactile sensation generator 503 contains three sets oftactile sensation actuators 501 which independently respond to threetransistor switch circuits 2552, 2553, 2554. Independent tactilesensation generator 504 contains four sets of tactile sensationactuators 501 which independently respond to four transistor switchcircuits 2555,2556,2557,2558. Each tactile sensation actuator 501 can becomposed of many individual actuators that are wired in series orparallel, that function as a single tactile sensation actuator byresponding to the same PWM signal. Ultimately, tactile sensationactuators 501 can be arranged in any number and configuration, with oneor more tactile sensation actuators 501 existing within one or moreindependent tactile sensation generators 502, 503, 504. 460 representsthe set of independent power distribution wires that carry the 5 currentthat is switched by the transistor switch circuits 2550, and ultimatelyutilized by the various tactile sensation actuators 501. In thepresently preferred embodiment, the digital logic TTL level PWM signals2549 enter the transistor switch circuits 2550 that are provided withinthe universal tactile feedback controller 110. Within box 460, theindependent power distribution lines from transistor switch circuits2551-2558 can contain power connectors of many different types, suchthat the actuators 501 can be plugged into those connectors.

In order to illustrate the many possible configurations of multipleindependent tactile sensation generators 120 that can be managed by thetactile feedback controller 110, and the various scenarios where suchtactile sensation generators 120 may be implemented within the presentinvention, FIGS. 27-30 have been provided. Although there is aconstantly growing library and wide range of game and simulationsoftware available, most applications for which tactile feedback is ofhigh importance can be categorized by two main genres: vehicle basedsimulations, and open-body combat games. Vehicle based simulationsinclude flight simulations, tank simulations, driving simulations, spaceflight simulations, and so on, where the game player navigates throughthe simulation or game via some type of simulated vehicle. Generally,the main tactile sensation generator in the present invention for anyvehicle based simulation is a tactile feedback seating unit 510.Open-body combat games include games that occur in the first personperspective, where the display apparatus generates a view of a simulatedworld, wherein the simulation attempts to represent what one would seeif they were actually standing within the simulated world. These gamesmay also occur in a third person “over the shoulder” view, or an “aboveand to the side ¾ perspective” view, and other perspectives as well. Inthese games, the game player is typically a human being that runs,walks, and otherwise navigates throughout the simulated world, without avehicle. Generally, the main tactile sensation generator in the presentinvention for any open-body combat game is a vest-based tactilesensation generator 595. In both the vehicle case and open-body case,additional tactile sensation generators are equally important toconvincingly portray the simulation as realistically as possible.

To illustrate scenarios with these and other tactile sensationgenerators, and common implementations of control input devices, FIGS.27-30 are referenced below. The scenarios depicted in FIGS. 27-30 areillustrative only, and by no means specifically imply any limitationsregarding other possible scenarios and implementations of tactilesensation generators and/or control input devices. Each of the fourillustrative scenarios, FIGS. 27-30, depicts one of four common controlinput device hardware suites. However, any given implementation of thefour illustrative control input device hardware suites may use only asubset of the illustrated control input devices. The actualimplementation of control input devices varies widely.

The first scenario (FIG. 26A), typical of military flight simulations,consists of a left-handed stand alone throttle and weapons controller, aright-handed joystick, and a rudder pedal unit. This first scenario isgenerally used for many other vehicle based games, such as modern tanksimulations and futuristic mechanized robot combat games. Most simulatedvehicles (other than cars) are controlled with this hardware setup. Thesecond scenario (FIG. 26B), typical of civilian flight simulations,consists of a two-handed flight yolk, and a rudder pedal unit. The thirdscenario (FIG. 26C), typical of driving simulations, consists of asteering wheel, a gear shifter, and a pedal unit typically providing gasand brake pedals. The fourth scenario (FIG. 26D), typical of firstperson perspective shooters, can use just about any combination ofcontrol input devices, such as keyboards, mice, joysticks, 3Dcontrollers, and more.

Referring to FIGS. 27-30, the host computer 102 provides signals to theuniversal tactile feedback controller 110 via cable set 110. Theuniversal tactile feedback controller 110, in turn, sends currentthrough power distribution cables 461-468 to activate the tactilesensation actuators 501 within the depicted tactile sensationgenerators.

In FIGS. 27-30, the tactile feedback seating unit 510 is a semi-rigidfoam structure, sealed with a cloth or vinyl layer, with a leg portionand a back portion, substantially shaped to easily rest upon any givenseat, with a plurality of actuators embedded within the foam structure,such that the actuators in the pad produce localized vibration. Theseactuators are laid out in several independent zones within the foam,providing a left leg tactile sensation generator, a right leg tactilesensation generator, and a back tactile sensation generator (which mayitself be divided into left back and right back tactile sensationgenerators), such that these independent tactile sensation generatorsexist within the single tactile feedback seating unit 510. Furthermore,each tactile sensation generator zone within the seat may itself be madeup of one or more tactile sensation actuators 501. Illustrative examplesof tactile feedback seating units are depicted later in this disclosure.

In FIGS. 27-30, the tactile sensation actuator(s) for a chest harness520 are one or more vibratory actuators that are embedded within orattached to apparatus that places the actuators in contact with theuser's chest, such that tactile sensation can be felt on the gameplayer's chest. Illustrative examples of this are depicted later in thisdisclosure. In cases where this device is ignored by the host computer102, the appropriate “minimum activation value” power output parametercan be set such that this device only produces tactile sensation upon acrash event, for example. In this way, the illusion of restraint by aseat belt or safety harness can be produced.

In FIGS. 27-28, both the tactile sensation actuators) for the left pedalon a rudder control 550, and the tactile sensation actuator(s) for theright pedal on a rudder control 560, together comprise a pair ofindependent tactile sensation generators that can be affixed to orembedded within both pedals on a rudder pedal unit. Generally, theseactuators may be attached to pre-existing rudder pedal units, or may beembedded within the plastic or metal structure that comprises the rudderpedals during their manufacture. In one implementation, vibratoryactuators are embedded within corresponding plastic pedal overlays, suchthat when the plastic overlays are laid on top of the existing footpedals, and affixed in place with hook and loop fasteners or two sidedadhesive foam tape (or some other readily available attachment means),the new surfaces of the foot pedals contain the tactile sensationactuators. In another implementation, tactile sensation actuators areaffixed to the bottom of the existing foot pedals, with hook and loopfasteners or two sided adhesive foam tape, if there is sufficient spacefor the actuators beneath the pedals. These approaches are illustratedlater in this disclosure. In addition to allowing specific tactilesensations to be perceived via the rudder pedal control input device,the rudder pedal unit will be afforded the illusion that it is affixedto the same structure to which the seating unit is affixed. This beginsto provide the illusion that there is a continuity of structure amongthe disparate control input devices that is important for suspending thedisbelief of the simulation user.

In FIG. 26A, the tactile sensation actuator(s) for a stand alonethrottle and weapons controller 530 will generally be comprised of twopossible forms. In the preferred illustrative form, a vibratory actuatorcan be attached to outer side of the throttle handle with hook and loopfasteners or two sided adhesive foam tape (or some other readilyavailable attachment means), such that the actuator is substantially outof the way, and therefore will not interfere with the motion of thethrottle body or the ergonomics of the throttle handle. In a secondillustrative form, small vibratory actuators can be affixed to orembedded within the throttle's handle, such that the hand of the user,in holding the throttle, will come into direct or indirect contact withthese small vibratory motors. If these motors are attached to the outersurface of the throttle handle, they must be small enough to notsubstantially disrupt the ergonomics of the throttle handle. Apreferable location would be the underside (bottom) of the throttlehandle. They may be attached in a temporary fashion via small elasticstraps, or they may be embedded within a small plastic housing that isspecifically designed to fit precisely upon the surface of a specificlocation of a specific throttle handle. Alternatively, small motors maybe inserted into the palm area of a padded glove that is to be worn bythe user. In another illustrative form, larger actuators can be affixedto the base of the throttle unit, by Velcro or two sided adhesive foamtape, which will generally alleviate possible size and ergonomicrestraints. Larger actuators can be more powerful, and therefore, willvibrate the handle of the throttle by sympathetic vibration.Additionally, both of these implementations of actuators may be usedsimultaneously. The tactile sensation actuator(s) for a flight controljoystick 540 are implemented in a similar fashion to the actuators forthe throttle and weapons controller 530. In the preferred illustrativeform, vibratory actuators can be affixed to or embedded within thejoystick's handle, such that the hand of the user, in holding thejoystick, will come into direct or indirect contact with these vibratorymotors. If these motors are attached to the outer surface of thejoystick handle, they must be small enough to not substantially disruptthe ergonomics of the joystick handle. A readily available solution aresmall 5 mm micro-motors, typically used as vibrators for pocket sizepagers. These micro-motors can be mounted to the palm side of thejoystick handle. The actuators may be attached in a temporary fashionvia small elastic straps, or they may be embedded within a small plastictemplate/housing that is specifically designed to fit upon therelatively flat surface of the palm area of a joystick handle. Manyforce-feedback joysticks have optical sensors on the joystick handle todetermine when the joystick is being held. In these cases, the templatemust accommodate the optical sensor, by being made of transparentplastic, or by providing an appropriate hole, such that light can strikethe optical sensor when the joystick handle is not being held.Alternatively, small motors may be inserted into the palm area of apadded glove that is to be worn by the user. In a second illustrativeform, a vibratory actuator can be attached to lower side of the joystickhandle opposite the user's palm, with Velcro hook and loop fasteners ortwo sided adhesive foam strips, such that the actuator is substantiallyout of the way, and therefore will not interfere with the motion of thejoystick or the ergonomics of the joystick handle. If sufficient roomdoes not exist in this location, the very top of the joystick usuallyhas sufficient area to attach an actuator. However, this area is moreconspicuous, and therefore, the size and shape of the actuator housingmay be especially limited by aesthetic considerations.

Ultimately, in the typical flight simulation scenario depicted in FIG.26A, comprised of a joystick, throttle, and rudder pedals, where tactilesensation actuators are distributed throughout these control inputdevices 530,540,550,560, and simultaneously within a seating unit 510and a chest harness 520, or some subset thereof, the simulation userwill be exposed to tactile sensations that help to convince his or hersenses that the simulation is real. Furthermore, due to thesubstantially unified manner of operation these disparate tactilefeedback devices, the flight simulation user will benefit from theillusion that these disparate devices are all attached to the samephysical structure.

In FIG. 26B, a two-handed flight control yolk, typical for civilianaircraft simulations, replaces the left-handed throttle and right handedflight control joystick of FIG. 26A. In this case, tactile sensationactuators can be attached to or embedded within both the left handle ofthe control yolk 535, and the right handle of the control yolk 545.Additionally, one or more larger actuators can be mounted on variouslocations on the flight control yolk's body, in lieu of the other twoactuators 535,545, or in addition to them. These actuators can beattached to the flight control yolk with elastic straps, Velcro hook andloop fasteners, two sided adhesive foam, or some other readily availableattachment means. In all other aspects, FIG. 26B is equivalent to FIG.26A.

In FIG. 26C, the driving simulation scenario consists of a steeringwheel, a gear shifter, and a pedal unit. The same tactile feedbackseating unit 510 and chest harness 520 that are used in the flight arethe peripheral tactile sensation actuators and the control input devicesthat they are applied to. In a preferred implementation, the tactilesensation actuators for the steering wheel 570 are attached to one ormore of the spokes that connect the steering wheel to its hub. Theseactuators can be attached with a two part housing, the two parts ofwhich sandwich any given steering wheel spoke, with one of the two partscontaining a vibratory motor. The two parts can be fastened togetherwith screws and screw receptacles, or with some commonly implementedequivalent, such as nuts and bolts or mating snap connectors. Theseconnectors could be made to specifically match any given specificsteering wheel spoke design, or can be implemented as a general purposeattachment. In other possible implementations, actuators could bemounted on the center hub of the steering wheel, or within the steeringwheel itself. Additionally, small motors may be inserted into the palmarea of a pair of padded driving gloves that are worn by the user.

Where possible, a tactile sensation actuator is embedded within theshift knob itself 575. This is accomplished with a plastic replacementshift knob, which contains an internal vibratory motor. The replacementknob can be fashioned with two halves that screw or snap together, wherean internal cavity can accommodate an vibratory actuator. Alternatively,it can be a one piece unit with an internal cavity within which avibratory actuator is placed. Additionally, the shift knob may alsocontain a solenoid that can strike the knob internally, in order tosimulate the knocking and grinding of gears within the simulatedtransmission that would result from poorly timed shifts. To accommodatethe various shaft diameters upon which the replacement shift knob mustfit, the hole for the shaft in the bottom of the knob can accommodatehorizontal screws that can be tightened to solidly attach the knob tothe varying shafts. Alternatively, the hole for the shaft in the bottomof the knob can be lined with dense, elastic foam, such that the knobcan be twisted onto a shaft, so that the knob will not readily come offthe shaft without a direct intention to remove it. The knob may also bedesigned to be substantially equivalent to the knob it replaces, suchthat it can fit directly upon the provided shaft just as the originalknob does.

Tactile sensation actuators are mounted to the pedal base unit 580,thereby simulating vibration that would normally be felt through thefloor of the vehicle. Essentially, a vibratory actuator within a plastichousing can be attached to the pedal base unit with hook and loopfasteners or two sided adhesive foam tape. One or more actuators can beused as desired. Tactile sensation actuators can be implemented withinthe provided pedals that protrude from the base of the pedal unit, suchas gas, brake, and clutch pedals 585. Alternatively, actuators can beattached to the pedals with hook and loop fasteners or adhesive foamtape. The brake pedal actuator(s) can simulate such things as brakingresistance, wheel lock-up, and anti-lock brakes, with vibratory motorsor solenoids, or both. The clutch pedal actuator(s) can simulate suchthings as clutch slippage and poorly timed shifts in a similar manner.

Ultimately, in the typical driving simulation scenario depicted in FIG.26C, comprised of a steering wheel, gear shift, and floor pedal basewith individually functioning pedals, where tactile sensation actuatorsare distributed throughout these disparate control input devices570,575,580,585, and simultaneously within a seating unit 510 and achest harness 520, or some subset thereof, the simulation user will beexposed to tactile sensations that help to convince his or her sensesthat the simulation is real. Furthermore, due to the substantiallyunified manner of operation these disparate tactile feedback devices,the driving simulation user will benefit from the illusion that thesedisparate devices are all attached to the same physical structure.

In FIG. 26D, the first person perspective open-body combat game, thecentral tactile feedback device is a vest-based tactile sensationgenerator 595. This vest-based tactile sensation generator can applylocalized tactile sensation, typically via vibratory and solenoid basedactuators, to many areas around the game player's torso. In this manner,environmental stimuli (e.g., bullet strikes, weapon strikes, energyfields, and so on) can be rendered in a directional manner. This canprovide the game user with information regarding the location of thesource, and the strength and direction of the attacks or stimuli. FIG.39 illustrates a front and side view of a vest-based tactile sensationgenerator, respectively. U.S. Pat. No. 5,565,840 “Tactile SensationGenerator” is such a device. The vest-based tactile sensation generator595 has additional uses as well. In vehicle simulation scenarios, suchas those illustrated in FIGS. 27-29, the vest based tactile sensationgenerator 595 can render directional G forces during vehiclemaneuvering. FIG. 26D also includes a tactile feedback seating unit 510as previously described. As games and simulations get more complex, itis becoming more common to have games where the mode of transportationchanges from a simulated character who is walking, running, or otherwisenavigating through the simulated environment, who then jumps into someavailable vehicle, and then proceeds to drive the vehicle. In this case,the tactile feedback seating unit 510 can generate appropriate tactilefeedback as necessary. Therefore, in many cases, the vest-based tactilesensation generator 595 and the tactile feedback seating unit 510 canwork interchangeably, or simultaneously, in a synergistic fashion.

The number of control input devices that can be used to control anygiven first person perspective shooter are as numerous as the types ofcontrollers that exist in the marketplace. Joysticks, 360 degree spincontrollers, gamepads, mice, trackballs, light guns, and 3D controllers,are some of the types of controllers that are available. In FIG. 26D,for simplicity, the peripheral tactile sensation actuators are describedby the human appendage they are intended for. The tactile sensationactuator for the left hand 590 and right hand 591 can exist within theappropriate device or devices, within a pair of gloves worn by the user,or can be attached to the appropriate device or devices with elasticstraps. The tactile sensation actuators for the left foot 592 and rightfoot 593 can be worn by the user via elastic straps, or, whereapplicable, can be attached to or embedded within the appropriatecontrol input device or devices.

Generally, all of the peripheral tactile sensation actuators of FIGS.27-30 are vibratory motors enclosed in plastic housings that have somesimple attachment means for attaching the vibratory motors to a givencontrol input device. The vibration produced by any given motor caneffectively transmit through its hard plastic housing and the attachmentmeans, ultimately causing vibration within the attached control inputdevice. The size and shape of the motor and its plastic housing aredetermined by the control input device they are meant to be attached to.The attachment means is most often hook and loop fasteners, althoughmany other attachment means are readily available. In most cases, aperipheral tactile sensation actuator will be comprised of a DC motorwith an offset weight on its shaft, a capacitor and diode across themotor's terminals, with a four to eight foot power distribution cable,that ends in some appropriate power connector. The electronic apparatuswithin each actuator is very simple, and the housing and attachmentmeans can be readily adapted to accommodate any given device. All fourscenarios depicted in FIGS. 27-30, and the tactile sensation apparatuswithin those scenarios, are illustrative. The provided scenarios shouldnot be interpreted to imply any specific limitations on possible tactilesensation actuators, tactile sensation generators, and the control inputdevices that they are applied to or embedded within.

In FIGS. 27-30, the tactile feedback seating unit 510 is a semi-rigidflexible foam structure, sealed with a cloth or vinyl layer, with a legportion and a back portion, substantially shaped to easily rest upon anygiven seat, with a plurality of actuators embedded within the foamstructure, such that the actuators in the pad produce localizedvibration. These actuators are laid out in several independent zoneswithin the foam, providing a left leg tactile sensation generator, aright leg tactile sensation generator, and a back tactile sensationgenerator (which may itself be divided into left back and right backtactile sensation generators), such that these independent tactilesensation generators exist within the single tactile feedback seatingunit 510. Furthermore, each tactile sensation generator zone within theseat may itself be made up of one or more tactile sensation actuators501. Illustrative examples regarding tactile feedback seating units aredepicted in FIGS. 31-33.

In FIG. 27A, the tactile feedback seating unit 510 is composed of asemi-rigid flexible foam structure 512, within which six actuators 501are embedded. The embedded actuators are arranged into three pairs,providing a back tactile sensation generator zone containing twoactuators connected to power distribution line 461, a left leg tactilesensation generator zone containing two actuators connected to powerdistribution line 462, and a right leg tactile sensation generator zonecontaining two actuators connected to power distribution line 463. Thesethree power distribution lines 460 are terminated by a DIN8 connector491. The power distribution wiring 461,462,463, the foam structure 512,and the actuators 501, are all sealed within the tactile feedbackseating unit 510 by a fabric or vinyl layer 514.

FIG. 27B illustrates the tactile sensation actuators 501 that areembedded within the tactile feedback seating unit 510. A powerdistribution line 460 powers a DC motor 810 that has an offset weight814 attached to its shaft 812. When the shaft 812 of the motor 810rotates, the offset weight 814 induces vibration. Each motor 810 isenclosed in a housing 800, which can be made of metal or plastic. Thehousing is embedded within the foam 512, and ultimately sealed insidethe tactile feedback seating unit 510 by a fabric or vinyl layer 514.

In FIG. 27C, the tactile feedback seating unit 510 is composed of asemi-rigid flexible foam structure 512, within which eight actuators 501are embedded. The embedded actuators are arranged into four pairs,providing a left back tactile sensation generator zone containing twoactuators connected to power distribution line 461, a right back tactilesensation generator zone containing two actuators connected to powerdistribution line 464, a left leg tactile sensation generator zonecontaining two actuators connected to power distribution line 462, and aright leg tactile sensation generator zone containing two actuatorsconnected to power distribution line 463. These four power distributionlines 460 are terminated by a DIN8 connector 491. The power distributionwiring 461,462,463,464, the foam structure 512, and the actuators 501,are all sealed within the tactile feedback seating unit 510 by a fabricor vinyl layer 514.

In the case of site-based entertainment (arcades, theme parks, tradeshows, and so on), where a more permanent seating surface is used, thetactile feedback seating unit 510 can be built into any given seatingsurface, obviating the need for a portable, self contained unit. In thiscase, the actuators 501 can be affixed to the underside of a plasticseat, producing localized vibration. Alternatively, heavy dutyindustrial materials could be used to fashion a foam based seating unitthat would be permanently affixed to a given arcade game chassis, forexample. Essentially, the seating unit would be similar to thosedepicted in FIGS. 31 and 32, but more specifically designed for a givenapplication and increased duty cycle.

In FIGS. 27-30, the tactile sensation actuator(s) for a chest harness520 are one or more vibratory actuators that are embedded within orattached to apparatus that places the actuators in contact with theuser's chest, such that tactile sensation can be felt on the gameplayer's chest. Illustrative examples of this are depicted in FIGS. 34,35, and 36. In cases where this device is ignored by the host computer102, the appropriate “minimum activation value” power output parametercan be set such that this device only produces tactile sensation upon acrash event, for example. In this way, the illusion of restraint by aseat belt or safety harness can be produced.

FIG. 28A is a diagram of a chest tactile sensation generator 520 in aseat belt configuration. An actuator 501 is mounted within a pad 522that is attached to a seat belt style strap 521, which terminates in aseat belt style connector 524A, that ultimately connects with itscorresponding mate 524B. This system generally approximates the seatbelt in a typical automobile. Alternatively, this system could beimplemented as a five-point racing harness. FIG. 28B is a diagram of achest tactile sensation generator 520 in a separate chest pad unit. Anactuator 501 is mounted within a pad 522 that has loops 523A and 523Bthat accommodate an elastic strap 521 that has corresponding buckles524A and 524B on each end of the strap 521. Generally, the user wouldstrap this assembly around his or her chest. The strap 521 can betightened by pulling on the ends of the strap 521A and 521B after buckle524A is connected to buckle 524B. FIG. 28C is a diagram of a chesttactile sensation generator 520 in a drop-down safety harnessconfiguration. The actuators 501 are mounted within the part of thedrop-down restraint 522 that lays upon the chest of the person sittingin the tactile feedback seating unit 510. The arm 521 of the drop-downsafety harness moves the chest restraint 522 along path 525 until itcontacts the chest of the person in the seat. In FIGS. 34-36, theactuators are powered by power distribution cable 464.

Generally, all of the peripheral tactile sensation actuators of FIGS.27-30 are vibratory motors enclosed in plastic housings that have somesimple attachment means for attaching the vibratory motors to a givencontrol input device. This is illustrated in FIGS. 37-40. In some cases,solenoids can be used, as illustrated in FIG. 29E. In FIGS. 37 and 38, aDC motor 810 has an offset weight 814 attached to its shaft 812. A powerdistribution cable 460 powers the motor 810 in order to inducevibration. In FIGS. 39 and 40, the DC motor 810 is enclosed in a housing800 that is typically composed of plastic, although metal or otherhousing material can be used as well. In the preferred embodiment,plastic is used for the housing 800 because it can be molded into anydesirable shape to accommodate any given application. In order toenclose the motor 810 in the custom plastic housing 800, the housing 800has two parts 800A and 800B, that can be screwed, glued, or snappedtogether to solidly seal the motor within the housing 800. In FIG. 29E,a solenoid 820 uses its plunger 822 to strike the housing 800 when thesolenoid is energized by its power distribution cable 460. A returnspring 824, and a spring restraint pin 826 (or equivalent) force theplunger 822 to return to its initial position when the solenoid isde-energized. In other implementations, the solenoid plunger can actuatea lever that pushes through an opening in the housing 800, such that thelever can strike an object outside of the plastic housing 800.Generally, any number of applications can be derived from theproductivity of motors 810 and/or solenoids 820. The activity of anygiven motor or solenoid can effectively transmit through its hardplastic housing and an attachment means, ultimately causing sympatheticvibration or other tactile event within the attached control inputdevice. The size and shape of the motor 810 and/or solenoid 820, and theplastic housing 800, are determined by the control input device they aremeant to be attached to, and the desired effect. In any case, thehousing 800 is attached to the desired control input device by someattachment means.

In FIG. 30A, the housing 800 has an attachment means of a two-sidedadhesive strip 830. In FIG. 30B, the housing 800 has an attachment meansof two corresponding halves of hook and loop fasteners. Typically, thehook half 840 of the attachment means is attached to the housing 800,and the loop half 842 of the attachment means is attached to the desiredcontrol input device. This yields a less permanent attachment means thantwo sided adhesive strips. In FIG. 30C, the loop fastener 842 is notattached to the desired control input device, but is instead attached toone end of a strap 841 of elastic fabric, non-elastic fabric, rubber, orsome other material. The other end of the strap 841 is permanentlyattached to the housing 800. This allows the strap 841 to hold thehousing 800 tightly against the desired control input device. Thissolution is the least permanent attachment means.

The attachment means is most often the hook and loop fasteners of FIG.30B, although many other attachment means are readily available and canbe substituted as necessary. Generally, a peripheral tactile sensationgenerator will be comprised of a DC motor with an offset weight on itsshaft, all within a plastic housing, with an eight to ten foot powerdistribution cable 460, that ends in some appropriate power connectorfor the power jacks illustrated in FIG. 26. Essentially, the electronicapparatus within each peripheral tactile sensation generator is verysimple, and the housing and attachment means can be readily adapted toaccommodate any given device. All four scenarios depicted in FIGS.27-30, and the tactile sensation apparatus within those scenarios, areillustrative. The provided scenarios should not be interpreted to implyany specific limitations on possible tactile sensation actuators,tactile sensation generators, and the control input devices that theyare applied to or embedded within.

In FIG. 26A, the tactile sensation actuator(s) for a stand alonethrottle and weapons controller 530 will generally be comprised of twopossible forms. In the preferred form, small vibratory actuators can beaffixed to or embedded within the throttle's handle, such that the handof the user, in holding the throttle, will come into direct or indirectcontact with these small vibratory motors. In one illustrative form, avibratory actuator can be attached to outer side of the throttle handlewith hook and loop fasteners or two sided adhesive foam tape (or someother readily available attachment means), such that the actuator issubstantially out of the way, and therefore will not interfere with themotion of the throttle body or the ergonomics of the throttle handle.This is illustrated in FIGS. 45-52.

FIG. 31A is a rear side view of a center-mounted throttle. FIG. 31B is atop down view of a center-mounted throttle. FIG. 31C depicts a throttletactile sensation generator 530 attached to the outer side of thethrottle handle with the attachment means of FIG. 30B, such that whenthe throttle is moved through its range of motion, the tactile sensationgenerator 530 does not interfere with the motion of the throttle or theergonomics of the throttle handle. FIG. 31D is a top down view of theapparatus of FIG. 31C, showing the position of the throttle tactilesensation generator 530. FIG. 31E is a rear side view of a side-mountedthrottle. FIG. 31F is a top down view of a side-mounted throttle. FIG.31G depicts a throttle tactile sensation generator 530 attached to theouter side of the throttle handle with the attachment means of FIG. 30B,such that when the throttle is moved through its range of motion, thetactile sensation generator 530 does not interfere with the motion ofthe throttle or the ergonomics of the throttle handle. FIG. 31H is a topdown view of the apparatus of FIG. 31G, showing the position of thethrottle tactile sensation generator 530. In the case of the illustratedthrottle tactile sensation generator 530 of FIGS. 47, 48, 51, and 52,power distribution cable 465 is used to power the illustrated tactilesensation generator.

The most preferable solution for the placement of the throttle tactilesensation generators, however, is inside the throttle handle itself atthe point of manufacture. This will make the tactile sensationgenerators invisible. If implemented at the point of manufacture, asmall housing for the actuator can be molded directly into the structureof the throttle handle, such that the actuator can be readily affixed tothe inside surface of the throttle handle. If implemented as an aftermarket solution, the end user would have to open the throttle handlewith a screwdriver or hex tool (or similar means as necessary), andaffix an actuator to the inside of the throttle with two sided adhesivetape (see FIG. 30A), epoxy resin, or some other means. To accommodatethe power distribution cable 465, a small hole may have to be drilled inthe throttle's handle such that the cable 465 can pass through.

Referring again to FIG. 26A, the tactile sensation actuator(s) for aflight control joystick 540 are implemented in a similar fashion to theactuators for the throttle and weapons controller 530.

FIG. 32A is a rear side view of a joystick. FIG. 32B is a top down viewof a joystick. FIG. 32C is a rear side view of a joystick, with ajoystick tactile sensation generator 540 attached with the attachmentmeans of FIG. 30B, in a position opposite and below the user's palm.This area is generally available, and can be utilized withoutsubstantially disrupting the function of the joystick, or the ergonomicsof the joystick's handle. FIG. 32D is a top down view of the apparatusof FIG. 32C. FIG. 32E is a rear side view of a joystick, with a joysticktactile sensation generator 540 attached to the top of the joystick withthe attachment means of FIG. 30B. FIG. 32F is a top down view of FIG.32E. In the case of the illustrated joystick tactile sensation generator540 of FIGS. 55, 56, 57, and 58, power distribution cable 466 is used topower the illustrated tactile sensation generator.

The most preferable solution for the placement of the joystick tactilesensation generators, however, is inside the joystick handle itself atthe point of manufacture.

Referring to FIGS. 27-28, both the tactile sensation actuator(s) for theleft pedal on a rudder control 550, and the tactile sensationactuator(s) for the right pedal on a rudder control 560, togethercomprise a pair of independent tactile sensation generators that can beaffixed to or embedded within both pedals on a rudder pedal unit.

Referring to FIG. 33A, a top down view of a rudder pedals control inputdevice is depicted. FIG. 33B is a right side view of a rudder pedalscontrol input device. In FIG. 33C, replacement pedal surfaces 550,560contain tactile sensation actuators, such that when the new pedalsurface is affixed to the existing pedals, the new pedal surfacecontains tactile sensation generation capability. FIG. 33D is a rightside view of the apparatus of FIG. 33C. In FIG. 33E, tactile sensationgenerators 550,560 are affixed to the underside of each rudder pedal.This is the more preferable solution, as the ergonomics of the rudderpedals remain unaffected. These tactile sensation generators may beattached to the rudder pedals at their point of manufacture as well.FIG. 33F is a right side view of the apparatus of FIG. 33E. In FIGS.61-64, the attachment means of FIG. 30B is used. Additionally, the leftfoot 550 and right foot 560 tactile sensation generators are powered bypower distribution cables 467 and 468, respectively.

In FIG. 26B, a two-handed flight control yolk, typical for civilianaircraft simulations, replaces the left-handed throttle and right handedflight control joystick of FIG. 26A.

Referring now to FIG. 34A, a front view of a control yolk's handle isdepicted. FIG. 34B is the apparatus of FIG. 34A, wherein a left handcontrol yolk tactile sensation generator 535 is applied to the main bodyof the control yolk near the left handle of the control yolk, and aright hand control yolk tactile sensation generator 545 is applied tothe main body of the control yolk near the right handle of the controlyolk. FIG. 34C is the apparatus of FIG. 34A, with left and right handtactile sensation generators 535,545 applied in upper outside positionson the control yolk's two handles. FIG. 34D is the apparatus of FIG.34A, with a larger, single tactile sensation generator 535 replacing oraugmenting the tactile sensation generators of FIGS. 66 and 67. In FIGS.66-68, the attachment means of FIG. 30B are used. Furthermore, powerdistribution cables 465 and 466 are used to power the control yolktactile sensation actuators. In a preferred embodiment, the tactilesensation generators of FIGS. 66-68 would be implemented within thecontrol yolk's handle at the point of manufacture.

Ultimately, in the flight simulation scenarios depicted in FIG. 27(comprised of a joystick, throttle, and rudder pedals) and FIG. 26B (acontrol yolk and rudder pedals), where tactile sensation generators aredistributed throughout these control input devices 530,540,550,560, andsimultaneously within a seating unit 510 and a chest harness 520, orsome subset thereof, the simulation user will be exposed to tactilesensations that help to convince his or her senses that the simulationis real. Furthermore, due to the substantially unified manner ofoperation these disparate tactile feedback devices, the flightsimulation user will benefit from the illusion that these disparatedevices are all attached to the same physical structure.

Referring to FIG. 26C, the driving simulation scenario consists of asteering wheel, a gear shifter, and a pedal unit. The same tactilefeedback seating unit 510 and chest harness 520 that are used in theflight simulation scenarios (FIGS. 27 and 28) are also implemented inthe driving scenario. What has changed are the peripheral tactilesensation actuators and the control input devices that they are appliedto. In a preferred implementation, the tactile sensation generators forthe steering wheel 570 are attached to one or more of the spokes thatconnect the steering wheel to its hub, as depicted in FIGS. 69-72.

FIG. 35A is a front view of a steering wheel. FIG. 35B is a side view ofa steering wheel. FIG. 35C is a front view of a steering wheel, withtactile sensation generator 570 attached to one spoke on the steeringwheel with the attachment means of FIG. 30C. FIG. 35D is a side view ofthe apparatus of FIG. 35C. In this way, the activity of the tactilesensation generator can propagate through the steering wheel. In anotherimplementation, the tactile sensation generator housing of the steeringwheel tactile sensation generator 570 can be implemented as a two parthousing, the two parts of which sandwich a given steering wheel spoke,with one of the two parts containing a vibratory motor. The two partscan be fastened together with screws and screw receptacles, or with somecommonly implemented equivalent, such as nuts and bolts or mating snapconnectors. These connectors could be made to specifically match anygiven specific steering wheel spoke design, or can be implemented as ageneral purpose attachment. In other possible implementations, tactilesensation generators could be mounted on the center hub of the steeringwheel, or within the steering wheel itself. Additionally, small motorsmay be inserted into the palm area of a pair of padded driving glovesthat are worn by the user.

Referring again to FIG. 26C, tactile sensation generators are mounted tothe pedal base unit 580, thereby simulating vibration that wouldnormally be felt through the floor of the vehicle. Essentially, avibratory actuator within a plastic housing can be attached to the pedalbase unit with Velcro hook and loop fasteners or two sided adhesive foamtape. One or more actuators can be used as desired. Tactile sensationactuators can be implemented upon the provided pedals that protrude fromthe base of the pedal unit, such as gas, brake, and clutch pedals 585.Brake pedal actuator(s) can simulate such things as braking resistance,wheel lock-up, and anti-lock brakes, with vibratory motors or solenoids,or both. Clutch pedal actuator(s) can simulate such things as clutchslippage and poorly timed shifts in a similar manner. These items areillustrated in FIGS. 73-76.

FIG. 36A is a top down view of a pedal unit control input device. FIG.36B is a right side view of a pedal unit control input device. FIG. 36Cis a top down view of a pedal unit control input device, with a pedalbase tactile sensation generator 580 attached to the base of the pedalunit, and a brake pedal tactile sensation generator 585 attached to thebrake pedal. FIG. 36D is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 36C. InFIGS. 75 and 76, the attachment means is that of FIG. 30B, while powerdistribution cable 468 powers the pedal unit tactile sensation generator580, and power distribution cable 466 powers the brake pedal unittactile sensation generator 585. In the brake pedal tactile sensationgenerator 585, a solenoid (see FIG. 29E) and/or a vibratory motor (seeFIG. 29C) can be used.

Referring again to FIG. 26C, a tactile sensation actuator is embeddedwithin the shift knob itself 575, when possible. FIG. 37A is a side viewof a shift knob upon a shaft. FIG. 37B is a shift knob tactile sensationgenerator 575, comprised of a housing with two halves 575A and 575B,such that the two halves can accommodate a vibratory motor (see FIG.29C). A horizontal tightening screw 576 can be tightened such that theshift knob tactile sensation generator 575 becomes firmly attached tothe shaft 577. Power distribution cable 465 powers the vibratory motorwithin the shift knob tactile sensation generator 575. FIG. 37C isequivalent to FIG. 37B in all respects, except that a solenoid (see FIG.29E) is also contained within the shift knob tactile sensation generator575. The solenoid is powered by some power distribution cable 460. InFIG. 37D, a dense foam insert 578 lines the interior of the shift knob,such that the shift knob can be twisted upon shafts of varyingdiameters, and generally remain firmly upon the shaft 577 until twistedoff.

Ultimately, in the typical driving simulation scenario depicted in FIG.26C, comprised of a steering wheel, transmission shift knob, and floorpedal base with individually functioning pedals, where tactile sensationactuators are distributed throughout these disparate control inputdevices 570,575,580,585, and simultaneously within a seating unit 510and a chest harness 520, or some subset thereof, the simulation userwill be exposed to tactile sensations that help to convince his or hersenses that the simulation is real. Furthermore, due to thesubstantially unified manner of operation these disparate tactilefeedback devices, the driving simulation user will benefit from theillusion that these disparate devices are all attached to the samephysical structure.

In FIG. 26D, the first person perspective open-body combat game, thecentral tactile feedback device is a vest-based tactile sensationgenerator 595. One very common control input device used for 1st personperspective combat games, and for most console games, is a hand-heldgame pad. FIG. 38A depicts a front view of an illustrative hand-heldcontrol input device. FIG. 38B is the back of the controller of FIG.38A. Vibratory motors and/or solenoids can be attached to the hand-heldgame pad as depicted in FIGS. 83 and 84. In FIG. 38C, a vibratorytactile sensation generator 590 is attached to the back of the hand-heldcontrol input device. The single tactile sensation generator iseffective for both hands, due to the small size of the hand-held gamecontroller. In FIG. 38D, tactile sensation generators for the left hand590 and right hand 591 are contained within a single housing. A firstvibratory motor 590 predominantly services the left hand, and a secondvibratory motor 591 services the right hand. Additionally, a solenoid594 rattles the hand-held controller (see FIG. 29E). These tactilesensation generators may be embedded within the hand-held controller atits point of manufacture.

In all cases where small relatively small motors and solenoids are used,batteries can be used as power supplies. In this way, simple digital TTLsignals can be used to activate the various tactile sensation actuators.Furthermore, digital signals can be transmitted over wirelesscommunication means, such as infrared and radio links, which wouldobviate the need for power distribution cables 460. Therefore, it ispossible that a given set of distributed tactile sensation generatorscan be self powered and wireless, while not departing from theincorporated teachings.

Although various embodiments which incorporate the teachings of thepresent invention have been shown and described in detail herein, thoseskilled in the art can readily devise many other varied embodiments thatstill incorporate these teachings. Accordingly, the describedembodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrativeand not restrictive. Therefore, it is to be understood that nothingshall be construed as a limitation of the present invention, other thanthe structure recited in the appended claims.

1. A game controller for a user controlled video game, comprising: ahousing; an interface on the housing that can provide communicationswith the user controlled video game; a first tactile sensation generatorinside the housing that can rotate; and a second tactile sensationgenerator inside the housing that can rotate.
 2. The game controller ofclaim 1, wherein the first and second tactile sensation generatorsprovide a vibratory sensation in accordance with communications with theuser controlled video game.
 3. The game controller of claim 1, whereinthe first and second tactile sensation generators are motors.
 4. Thegame controller of claim 1, wherein the first and second tactilesensation generators are dc motors.
 5. The game controller of claim 1,wherein the first and second tactile sensation generators are motorswith offset weights.
 6. The game controller of claim 1, wherein thefirst and second tactile sensation generators are dc motors with offsetweights.
 7. The game controller of claim 1, wherein the interfaceincludes one or more control devices on the peripheral device that canprovide control signals to the user controlled video game.
 8. The gamecontroller of claim 1, wherein when the game controller is connected tothe user controlled video game through the interface, the gamecontroller vibrates in accordance with action on the user controlledvideo game.
 9. The game controller of claim 1, wherein when the gamecontroller is connected to the user controlled video game through theinterface, the game controller vibrates in accordance with an audiosignal from the user controlled video game.
 10. The game controller ofclaim 1, wherein when the game controller is connected to the usercontrolled video game through the interface, the game controllervibrates in accordance a signal from the user controlled video gameprovided on the interface.
 11. The game controller of claim 1, whereinthe game controller is sized to be able to be held by left and righthands of a user.
 12. The game controller of claim 1, wherein the firsttactile sensation generator is located in a section of the gamecontroller adapted to be held by a left hand and the second tactilesensation generator is located in a section of the game controlleradapted to be held by a right hand.
 13. The game controller of claim 1,further comprising a third tactile sensation generator.
 14. A method ofplaying a video game on a gaming computing device with a gamecontroller, comprising: using the game controller to control action ofthe video game on the gaming computing device; and rotating a firsttactile sensation generator and a second tactile sensation generatorinside the game controller to create tactile sensations.
 15. The methodof claim 14, further comprising controlling a third tactile sensationinside the game controller to create tactile sensations.
 16. The methodof claim 14, further comprising holding the game controller in a leftand a right hand.
 17. The method of claim 14, wherein the gamecontroller vibrates in accordance with action in the video game.